Donald Trump has continued to declare victory in the war against Iran, while accusing Tehran of “doing a very poor job” in the Strait of Hormuz.
The US president bashed The Wall Street Journal’s editorial board for writing that Trump has declared “premature victory” in Iran.
“Actually, it is a Victory, and there’s nothing ‘premature’ about it! Because of me, IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON and, very quickly, you’ll see Oil start flowing, with or without the help of Iran,” Trump wrote on Truth Social Thursday.
Trump later criticized Iran’s “very poor job, dishonorable some would say,” of allowing oil through the Strait of Hormuz, which carries about a fifth of the world’s oil in peacetime.
Trump said Tuesday that the US and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire on the condition that Iran would agree to the reopening of the strait.
The president is also considering withdrawing some US troops from Europe amid dismay over Nato allies’ failure to help secure the strait, according to Reuters.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said Israel will begin peace talks with Lebanon “as soon as possible” after launching devastating strikes Wednesday that killed more than 300.
Key Points
- Trump says Iran doing 'dishonorable' job with the Strait of Hormuz
- Trump considering withdrawing US troops from Europe - report
- Netanyahu: Israel wants Lebanon peace talks 'as soon as possible'
- Israel-Lebanon negotiations to begin in Washington next week - report
- Starmer appears to compare Trump to Putin over decision to launch war on Iran
- Death toll from Israel's Lebanon attacks on Wednesday rises to 303
Trump rants about former MAGA faithfuls who criticized Iran war
03:00 , Rachel DobkinDonald Trump has issued a lengthy rant on social media against former MAGA faithfuls he calls “losers”.
The US president name-dropped prominent American conservative media figures Tucker Carlson, Megyn Kelly, Candace Owens and Alex Jones, who have all criticized his war with Iran.
“They think it is wonderful for Iran, the Number One State Sponsor of Terror, to have a Nuclear Weapon — Because they have one thing in common, Low IQs”, Trump wrote on Truth Social late Thursday afternoon.
Trump issues lengthy rant against former MAGA faithfuls he calls ‘losers’
Watch: Starmer says Gulf leaders were 'shocked' at the way they were attacked by Iran
02:30 , Rachel DobkinIRGC denies striking Gulf nations post-ceasefire: report
02:00 , Rachel DobkinThe Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps has denied striking Gulf nations, or any country for that matter, after a ceasefire in the war was announced, The New York Times reported, citing Iranian state media.
Iran’s paramilitary said it had made “absolutely no launches toward any country” since the two-week ceasefire was announced Tuesday.
Watch: Nato chief asked if he still considers Trump 'daddy' after Iran war
01:29 , Alex CroftUS is ignoring evidence Russia is helping Iran because it trusts Putin, says Zelensky
01:00 , Alex CroftThe United States is ignoring evidence of Russia helping Iran because the Trump administration still trusts Vladimir Putin, according to Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky.
Ukrainian intelligence accused Russia of feeding Iran with data used to strike US forces and other targets in the Gulf during the six-week conflict. Donald Trump and his top officials have suggested they are aware of Russian interference, but have played down the threat.
In an interview with Alastair Campbell on The Rest is Politics: Leading podcast, Mr Zelensky said he had tried to raise the issue but feared US negotiators were blinded by their close contact with the Kremlin.
“I said this publicly. Did we hear a reaction from the US to Russia that they have to stop it? The problem is they trust Putin. And it’s a pity,” he said.
James Reynolds reports:
US is ignoring evidence Russia is helping Iran because it trusts Putin, says Zelensky
Trump says Iran doing 'dishonorable' job allowing oil through the Strait of Hormuz
Friday 10 April 2026 00:30 , Rachel DobkinUS President Donald Trump has said Iran is doing a “dishonorable” job allowing oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz.
The strait typically carries about a fifth of the world’s oil, but after the US and Israel launched strikes against Iran, the country effectively closed the waterway.
“Iran is doing a very poor job, dishonorable some would say, of allowing Oil to go through the Strait of Hormuz. That is not the agreement we have!” Trump wrote on Truth Social Thursday.
Trump announced on Truth Social Tuesday that the US and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire on the condition that Iran would agree to the “ COMPLETE, IMMEDIATE, and SAFE OPENING of the Strait of Hormuz.”
Hezbollah rejects direct negotiations with Israel
Thursday 9 April 2026 23:59 , Alex CroftHezbollah lawmaker Ali Fayyad has said the group rejects direct negotiations with Israel, adding that the Lebanese government should demand a ceasefire as a precondition before any further steps are taken.
Fayyad's statement came after Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he had instructed his cabinet to begin direct talks with Lebanon.
Fayyad said the Lebanese government's position should also prioritize the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Lebanese territory and the return of displaced people to their homes.
White House warns US government staff against placing market bets amid war
Thursday 9 April 2026 23:51 , Alex CroftThe White House warned US government staff against improperly leveraging their positions to place bets in futures markets in an email on March 23, the Wall Street Journal reported on Thursday.
The Journal said the announcement was made hours after Donald Trump said on Truth Social he would order the military to postpone any strikes against Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure.
The White House confirmed the authenticity of the warning, WSJ said.
Russia condemns Israeli attacks on Lebanon
Thursday 9 April 2026 23:45 , Alex CroftRussia's foreign ministry has strongly condemned an Israeli attack on Lebanon and called for an immediate ceasefire.
It said such aggressive actions threaten to derail a negotiation process that is underway and risk further escalation in the region.
Israel carried out its heaviest strikes on Lebanon since the conflict with Hezbollah broke out last month, killing more than 303 people on Wednesday, as the Iran-aligned group resumed rocket attacks on northern Israel after a brief pause under the two-week US-Iran ceasefire.
Lebanon declares day of mourning after Israeli attacks
Thursday 9 April 2026 23:36 , Alex CroftEarlier on Thursday, Israel has kept up its bombing of Beirut's southern suburbs and other parts of the country, according to Lebanon’s state media.
Hezbollah announced at least 20 military operations on Thursday, saying it had targeted Israeli vehicles on Lebanese territory as well as firing into northern Israel.
Lebanese officials declared a day of mourning after Wednesday's attacks on heavily populated areas, which they described as a "massacre".
Outside Beirut's Rafik Hariri University Hospital, a steady stream of ambulances arrived throughout Thursday afternoon full of mangled bodies recovered from the sites of Israeli strikes the previous day.
"We're picking up body parts for the most part. It's very rare that we find entire bodies intact," said a rescue worker on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to speak to the press.
Lebanon's Health Ministry said the death toll since March 2 had risen to 1,888 dead and more than 6,000 wounded.
Starmer issues 'blunt' response to Trump's 'whole civilisation will die' threat
Thursday 9 April 2026 23:21 , Alex CroftTrump again declares victory as he lashes out at critics
Thursday 9 April 2026 23:08 , Alex CroftDonald Trump has once again declared “Victory” for the US after US media suggested his declaration had been “premature”.
“The Wall Street Journal, one of the worst and most inaccurate “Editorial Boards” in the World, stated that I “declared premature victory in Iran.” Actually, it is a Victory, and there’s nothing “premature” about it!” the US president wrote on Truth Social.
He added: “Because of me, IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON and, very quickly, you’ll see Oil start flowing, with or without the help of Iran and, to me, it makes no difference, either way.
“The Wall Street Journal will, as usual, live to eat their words. They are always quick to criticize, but never to admit when they’re wrong, which is most of the time!”
Starmer: Upholding ceasefire is critical for lasting peace
Thursday 9 April 2026 22:58 , Alex CroftSir Keir Starmer has told the leaders of Bahrain that upholding a ceasefire is important to “pave the way for lasting peace”, according to No 10.
A Downing Street spokesperson said: “The Prime Minister met with His Majesty the King of Bahrain, Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Bahrain, Salman bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, this evening in Manama.
“The Prime Minister strongly condemned the Iranian attacks on Bahrain and reflected on his conversations so far with other leaders in the region.
“He reiterated the importance of ensuring the ceasefire is upheld in order to pave the way for lasting peace. He said that the UK would continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with Bahrain and other allies in the region.
“They underlined their commitment to restoring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and the need to consider and pursue viable plans to deliver this.
“The Prime Minister and Crown Prince also reflected on the long held strong links between their countries and the depth of the relationship, including the strong defence collaboration between the UK and Bahrain and their desire to work on this further. They looked forward to speaking again soon.”
Trump says Iran 'better stop' if they are charging tankers to pass through Hormuz
Thursday 9 April 2026 22:55 , Alex CroftDonald Trump has responded to reports that Iran is charging fees to tankers transitting through the Strait of Hormuz.
He warns that Tehran “better stop now” if this is the case.
In a post on Truth Social, the US president said: “There are reports that Iran is charging fees to tankers going through the Hormuz Strait — They better not be and, if they are, they better stop now! President DONALD J. TRUMP”
Tehran earlier said it had halted shipping traffic through the waterway in retaliation for Israel’s strikes on Lebanon.
Watch: Starmer condemns post-ceasefire Israeli strikes on Lebanon
Thursday 9 April 2026 22:40 , Alex CroftAnalysis | Democrats opened the door to a third Trump impeachment over Iran. Here’s what they need to happen next
Thursday 9 April 2026 22:33 , Alex CroftAgrowing number of House Democrats have opened the door to impeaching President Donald Trump for his actions in the Iran War. But they face the same problem they did during the two impeachments of Trump’s first presidency: math.
On Thursday, a handful of House Democrats came to Washington during a pro forma session — Congress is officially on Easter recess until next week — to try and force a vote on a War Powers Act resolution to rein in Trump’s military authority in Iran.
But the House immediately gaveled out within seconds despite objections from Reps. Suhas Subramanyam, Don Beyer and James Walkinshaw of Virginia; Glenn Ivey of Maryland; Emily Randall of Washington; Madeleine Dean and Mary Gay Scanlon of Pennsylvania; and Sara Jacobs of California.
“We need to end this war with a real, durable diplomatic solution,” Jacobs said on the Capitol steps afterward.
“And that will only happen if our Republican colleagues get back here, stand up to this president, put a real check on his power, like the Constitution demands us to do.”
Eric Garcia writes:
Here’s what must happen for House Democrats to impeach Donald Trump on Iran
Starmer appears to compare Trump to Putin over decision to launch war on Iran
Thursday 9 April 2026 22:30 , Alex CroftBritish prime minister Sir Keir Starmer has appeared to compare Donald Trump to Russian president Vladimir Putin after his war on Iran saw fuel prices shoot up in the UK.
"I'm fed up with the fact that families across the country see their bills go up and down on energy businesses bills go up and down on energy because of the actions of Putin or Trump across the world," Sir Keir told ITV’s Talking Politics podcast on Thursday.
The prime minister is currently on a tour of the Middle East, where he is meeting with leaders to help push through deals to halt the regional war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which was blocked by Tehran after the US and Israel launched a deadly war on 28 February.
Sir Keir was critical of Trump’s actions during the interview, warning that the “impact on our economy” of the closure of the Strait - through which one fifth of the world’s crude oil passes - is “clear to see”.
Recent reports have suggested Iran may impose tolls on ships passing through the Strait as part of a ceasefire agreement.
"Some of the discussions in the last couple of days have been, let's see what happens in two, three, four days,” Sir Keir said. “That'll begin to be the test. So it's not what people say on day one or day two."
Canada condemns Israel's bombing campaign in Lebanon
Thursday 9 April 2026 22:11 , Alex CroftCanada strongly condemns Israel's bombing campaign against targets in Lebanon, foreign minister Anita Anand said in a statement on Thursday.
Anand also condemned what she called Hezbollah's indiscriminate attacks against Israel.
Ottawa is the latest in several countries, including Israel’s allies, to condemn Israel’s military action, including large attacks on Wednesday that killed 303.
Trump says Israel to 'scale back' strikes on Lebanon
Thursday 9 April 2026 21:50 , Alex CroftDonald Trump has said Israel will be “scaling back” strikes on Lebanon ahead of negotiations due to be held between Iran and the US.
"I spoke with Bibi and he's going to low-key it. I just think we have to be sort of a little more low-key," Trump told NBC News after a call with Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
He said he is “very optimistic” that a deal will be reached during negotiations in Islamabad, saying that Tehran is "agreeing to all the things that they have to agree to" and is being "reasonable".
Starmer holds call with Trump over Strait of Hormuz
Thursday 9 April 2026 21:31 , Alex CroftSir Keir Starmer has spoken with Donald Trump to discuss a practical plan to get shipping moving through the Strait of Hormuz, Downing Street has announced.
The pair agreed to speak again soon, it added.
Sir Keir Starmer spoke from Qatar, the fourth country he is visiting on a trip to the Gulf to discuss the Iran war.
He has already visited Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain.
Trump complains Nato and others don't understand 'unless they have pressure placed upon them'
Thursday 9 April 2026 21:20 , Alex CroftPresident Donald Trump earlier on Thursday lashed out at Nato once again in a post on Truth Social.
“None of these people, including our own, very disappointing, Nato, understood anything unless they have pressure placed upon them!!!”
The statement comes amid a potential collapse of a fragile ceasefire agreed between the US and Iran as Israel continues to attack Lebanon.
In pictures: Devastation after Wednesday's heavy Israeli attacks on Lebanon
Thursday 9 April 2026 21:01 , Alex Croft
EU commissioner for Mediterranean condemns Israeli strikes on Lebanon
Thursday 9 April 2026 20:43 , Alex CroftThe European Commissioner for the Mediterranean, Dubravka Suica, has condemned Israeli strikes on Lebanon at an informal meeting of the EU MED9 group in Croatia on Thursday.
In his remarks, Mr Suica also called for a ceasefire in the region after Israeli attacks killed 303 on Wednesday, according to Lebanese authorities.
Another attendee at the gathering of foreign ministers and state secretaries of nine Mediterranean countries, Slovenia's Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon, also called for all sides to stop the violence in the Middle East.
Trump v Pope Leo: Reasons why American-born Pope may not visit US while Trump is president
Thursday 9 April 2026 20:26 , Alex CroftSaudi halts operations at several energy facilities after attacks - state news agency
Thursday 9 April 2026 20:10 , Alex CroftOperational activities have been halted at several energy facilities in Saudi Arabia due to recent attacks, Saudi state news agency SPA reported on Thursday, citing an official source at the ministry of energy.
The attacks resulted in the death of one Saudi national from the industrial security personnel of the Saudi energy company, SPA added.
The attacks resulted in a total reduction in the Saudi Kingdom’s production capacity to approximately 600,000 barrels of oil per day.
As a fragile ceasefire buckles, Trump must finally show he can say no to Netanyahu
Thursday 9 April 2026 19:53 , Alex CroftEven with the emerging prospect of talks between Israel and Lebanon, this week’s US-Iran ceasefire is, as vice-president JD Vance described it, a “fragile truce”.
Missiles are still flying around the region, and the vital Strait of Hormuz – now the most famous and important shipping lane in the world – remains effectively closed to most traffic.
However, Israel’s aggression against Hezbollah forces in Lebanon, the loss of innocent lives, and the destruction of civilian infrastructure in the weakened Lebanese state are making the difficult task of securing peace in the Gulf virtually impossible.
The world is watching in dismay as Israel issues evacuation warnings in Beirut – amid fears of some kind of Gaza-level destruction.
Read The Independent’s editorial here:
As a fragile ceasefire buckles, Trump must finally show he can say no to Netanyahu
Trump considering withdrawing US troops from Europe - report
Thursday 9 April 2026 19:34 , Alex CroftDonald Trump is considering withdrawing some US troops from Europe amid dismay over Nato allies’ failure to help secure the Strait of Hormuz, according to a report in Reuters.
The US president has discussed the option - which would be a significant move demonstrating the growing strain in transatlantic relations - with his advisors, a senior White House official said.
The news suggests that a visit to the White House on Wednesday by Nato secretary-general Mark Rutte failed to significantly improve transatlantic relations, which are arguably at their lowest point since NATO's 1949 founding.
More than 80,000 troops are currently stationed in Europe, more than 30,000 of which are located in Germany, with sizeable numbers also stationed in Italy, the United Kingdom and Spain.
Nato did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Starmer condemns Israeli attacks on Lebanon as 'wrong'
Thursday 9 April 2026 19:29 , Alex CroftIsraeli strikes on Lebanon following the US-Iran ceasefire deal are “wrong” and “should stop”, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has said during a trip to Gulf nations.
Israel’s bombardment of Beirut is imperilling the two-week truce agreed to by US President Donald Trump after he had threatened that “a whole civilisation will die tonight” – language Sir Keir said he would personally “never use”.
The Prime Minister also said the UK is “monitoring” the use of UK bases by Washington to ensure they are only being used for collective self-defence rather than for offensive operations against Iran.
The Prime Minister arrived in Bahrain on Thursday afternoon as part of a trip to the region, which also included stops in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, amid signs the ceasefire is already under strain.
The Prime Minister said it was “hard to say” whether the Israeli strikes on Lebanon, which killed hudreds, were a breach of the ceasefire between the US and Iran.
“We haven’t all got access to all the details of the ceasefire,” Sir Keir told ITV’s Talking Politics podcast in Bahrain.
“But look, let me be really clear about it – they’re wrong.”
Hezbollah rejects direct negotiations with Israel
Thursday 9 April 2026 19:11 , Alex CroftHezbollah lawmaker Ali Fayyad has said the group rejects direct negotiations with Israel, adding that the Lebanese government should demand a ceasefire as a precondition before any further steps are taken.
Fayyad's statement came after Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he had instructed his cabinet to begin direct talks with Lebanon.
Fayyad said the Lebanese government's position should also prioritize the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Lebanese territory and the return of displaced people to their homes.
People should not leave streets despite 'negotiations with enemy' - Iran's supreme leader
Thursday 9 April 2026 18:59 , Alex CroftWe can bring you more from the statement released on Iranian state TV, attributed to Iran’s supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei.
Tehran will seek retribution for the attacks it has suffered, the statement says. This includes bringing the Strait of Hormuz into a new phase of management.
Iran remains resolute in seeking revenge for the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and its other martyrs, it adds.
The statement also urged people not to leave the streets despite “negotiations with the enemy”.
Iran's supreme leader says Iran is not seeking war but will not forfeit its rights
Thursday 9 April 2026 18:56 , Alex CroftIran’s state TV has been reading out a statement which it attributes to supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei.
Iran is not seeking war but will not forfeit its rights, the statement read.
It added that Tehran is awaiting the appropriate reaction from its southern neighbours so that Iran can “show you our brotherhood”. It is unclear exactly what reaction the statement is referring to.
Lines are still coming through from the statement - stay with us for updates.
In pictures: Starmer visits UAE in tour of Middle East
Thursday 9 April 2026 18:43 , Alex Croft
States condemn 'unacceptable' behaviour towards UN peacekeepers in Lebanon
Thursday 9 April 2026 18:23 , Alex CroftDozens of states issued a joint statement at the UN on Thursday condemning "unacceptable aggressive behavior" toward UN peacekeepers in Lebanon
The statement called for increased protections after the deaths there of three Indonesian soldiers.
The 63 countries and the EU also expressed "deep concern over the humanitarian situation in Lebanon, especially the significant civilian casualties, the extensive destruction of civilian infrastructure and the mass displacement of more than one million people."
The statement was read by Indonesia's UN ambassador Umar Hadi, accompanied by dozens of envoys from countries that endorsed it.
It noted that attacks on peacekeepers could constitute war crimes under international law and those responsible must be held accountable.
Death toll from Israel's Lebanon attacks on Wednesday rises to 303
Thursday 9 April 2026 18:04 , Alex CroftThe death toll from Israel’s large wave of attacks on Lebanon on Wednesday has risen to 303, authorities have said.
The figure was previously put at around 250, with more than 1,000 wounded.
Israel’s devastating attacks were carried out in just 10 minutes, and is believed to be one of the worst mass killings in Lebanon since the the country’s civil war ended in 1990.
Israel-Lebanon negotiations to begin in Washington next week - report
Thursday 9 April 2026 17:49 , Alex CroftThe first direct negotiations between Israel and Lebanon will begin in the US next week, according to a report from Axios.
The talks, announced by Benjamin Netanyahu earlier on Thursday, will take place at the State Department on Washington, a senior Israeli official told the outlets global affairs correspondent Barak Ravid.
Israel and Lebanon will both be represented by their ambassadors to Washington, respectively Yechiel Leiter and Nada Hamadeh-Moawad.
The US ambassador to Lebanon Michel Issa will represent the US.
Full report: Trump ‘gives European allies ultimatum’ to secure Strait of Hormuz as his Iran ceasefire hangs by a thread
Thursday 9 April 2026 17:42 , Alex CroftDonald Trump has reportedly issued Nato allies with an ultimatum to send warships to the Strait of Hormuz within days, as his ceasefire with Iran comes under risk of collapse.
Nato boss Mark Rutte told European leaders that Trump expects partners to make concrete military commitments, according to Der Spiegel, casting the demand as an ‘ultimatum’.
It came amid reports that Trump was drawing up a list of partners that supported or opposed his war in the Middle East, weighing the removal of US forces from countries deemed resistant.
In another outburst on social media earlier in the day, the president lamented that “NATO WASN’T THERE WHEN WE NEEDED THEM, AND THEY WON’T BE THERE IF WE NEED THEM AGAIN. REMEMBER GREENLAND, THAT BIG, POORLY RUN, PIECE OF ICE!!!”
Maira Butt reports:
Trump ‘demands European allies secure Strait of Hormuz’ as ceasefire hangs by thread
Lebanon seeking temporary ceasefire, says official
Thursday 9 April 2026 17:26 , Alex CroftLebanon has spent the last 24 hours advocating for a temporary ceasefire to allow for broader talks with Israel, a senior Lebanese official has told Reuters news agency.
The official said it would be a "separate track but the same model" as a fragile truce brokered by Pakistan between the US and Iran.
They added that no date or location had been set yet but Lebanon needed the US as a mediator and guarantor of any agreement.
They spoke to Reuters after Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that he had instructed the start of direct negotiations with Lebanon "as soon as possible."
Watch: Nato leader praises Trump for 'bold leadership and vision'
Thursday 9 April 2026 17:10 , Alex CroftNetanyahu: Israel wants Lebanon peace talks 'as soon as possible'
Thursday 9 April 2026 16:54 , Alex CroftIsraeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that he has given an instruction for Israel to begin peace talks with Lebanon that would also include the disarming of Hezbollah.
"In light of Lebanon's repeated requests to open direct negotiations with Israel, I instructed the cabinet yesterday to start direct negotiations with Lebanon as soon as possible," Netanyahu said in a statement.
"The negotiations will focus on disarming Hezbollah and establishing peaceful relations between Israel and Lebanon.”
We’ll bring you more as it comes in.
Rutte says Nato has done everything Trump has requested in Iran war
Thursday 9 April 2026 16:37 , Alex CroftMark Rutte, the Nato boss, has been speaking following a meeting with Donald Trump on Wednesday.
While some countries within the western military alliance were initially “ a bit slow” to provide support to the US in Iran, they are now providing significant support, he said/.
"When it came time to provide the logistical and other support the United States needed in Iran, some allies were a bit slow, to say the least,” Mr Rutte said in a speech in Washington.
“In fairness, they were also a bit surprised. To maintain the element of surprise for the initial strikes, President Trump opted not to inform allies ahead of time," Rutte said during a speech in Washington.
But he said allies are now “providing a massive amount of support” and doing “everything the United States is asking”.
Starmer wins public approval for handling of war as fears over energy costs rise
Thursday 9 April 2026 16:20 , James ReynoldsNew polling by Ipsos UK has revealed that net approval for Sir Keir Starmer’s cautious handling of the war has increased by nine points in the last month with 30 per cent now believing he is doing a good job.
At the same time, disapproval of Donald Trump’s war on Iran has risen by nine points to 65 per cent among the 1,136 UK voters polled.
But the survey also reveals that 68 per cent want Sir Keir to cancel his planned 5p hike in fuel duty next September.
There are high levels of concern over the impact of the conflict on the price of fuel and energy (86 per cent). Four in five (80 per cent) Britons are concerned about the availability of fuel (gas, petrol, and oil) within the UK.
Around three in five are similarly concerned about the availability of wider goods, such as food and toiletries, and medical supplies.
Austrian PM calls for full implementation of ceasefire
Thursday 9 April 2026 16:07 , Alex CroftWe’ve now heard from Austrian chancellor Christian Stocker, who on Thursday held a phone call with Pakistani prime minister Shehbaz Sharif to congratulate him for facilitating a ceasefire between Iran and the US.
Mr Stocker, who said Vienna has offered its full support for a diplomatic solution to the war, called on the agreement to be fully implemented on both sides.
“Freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with international law must be ensured,” Mr Stocker wrote on X.
“It is imperative that all sides stick to what has been agreed upon, fully implement the ceasefire across the region and cease all military operations.”
Just spoke with Prime Minister @CMShehbaz of Pakistan. I congratulated him on his efforts in facilitating the ceasefire between Iran and the United States.
— Christian Stocker (@_CStocker) April 9, 2026
I assured him of Austria’s full support for a diplomatic solution to end the war. Freedom of navigation in the Strait of… pic.twitter.com/GDzvadGCZP
Watch: Jake Tapper hits back at Trump after CNN accused of 'lying' over Iran: 'Our job is not to please the president'
Thursday 9 April 2026 15:54 , Maira ButtPakistan prepares for crucial US-Iran negotiations
Thursday 9 April 2026 15:23 , Maira ButtPakistan is preparing to hold highly-anticipated peace talks between the US and Iran as a fragile ceasefire agreement appears to be on the brink of collapse.
The US delegation is reported to be led by JD Vance and the Iranians are to be represented by Iran’s parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.
Talks will take place at the Serena Hotel in Pakistan’s capital Islamabad.
‘There’s no mercy’: Lebanese expats terrified for their families as Israel continues bombardment of country
Thursday 9 April 2026 14:57 , Maira ButtAs people across the world celebrated the news of the US and Iran’s ceasefire, Sara Roddis was devastated to learn that her family in Lebanon would still have no rest from Israel’s bombardment.
For the past month, Ms Roddis, from Coventry, has been “ill with stress”. Most of her immediate family is in the south of Lebanon, which has been regularly targeted by Israel.
Since hostilities broke out between Israel and Lebanon last month, she has been “absolutely terrified” that one of her loved ones will die. “I cry every day,” she told The Independent.
Harriette Boucher reports:
Lebanese expats ‘terrified’ for families after Israel says ceasefire doesn’t apply
Trump complains Nato and others don't understand 'unless they have pressure placed upon them'
Thursday 9 April 2026 14:33 , Maira ButtPresident Donald Trump has lashed out at Nato once again in a new post on Truth Social on Thursday.
“None of these people, including our own, very disappointing, Nato, understood anything unless they have pressure placed upon them!!!”
The statement comes amid a potential collapse of a fragile ceasefire agreed between the US and Iran as Israel continues to attack Lebanon.
Nato's Rutte tells allies Trump wants commitments on Hormuz within days, say diplomats
Thursday 9 April 2026 14:10 , Maira ButtNato Secretary General Mark Rutte has briefed some capitals that US president Donald Trump wants concrete commitments within the next few days for help securing the Strait of Hormuz, two European diplomats told Reuters on Thursday.
The Strait of Hormuz has remained largely shut despite the ceasefire, with data from shipping companies revealing that movement through the vital waterway is essentially at a standstill.
Israeli military issues evacuation warning for Beirut ahead of possible attack
Thursday 9 April 2026 13:57 , Maira ButtIsrael’s military has issued an evacuation warning for residents of Beirut’s southern suburbs ahead of a possible attack, according to a statement on Thursday.
It follows a warning by prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu this morning that Israel would continue striking Lebanon despite calls by the international community for the fighting to stop.
Iran will allow no more than 15 vessels through Strait of Hormuz under ceasefire agreement, says TASS agency
Thursday 9 April 2026 13:45 , Maira ButtA senior Iranian source has said that Iran will allow no more than 15 vessels to pass through the Strait of Hormuz every day under a US-Iran ceasefire agreement, according to the TASS news agency.
It follows reports that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned ships that due to the “state of war” a crucial shipping lane could be laid with mines as it urged vessels to remain in contact with security forces to prevent a collision.
Experts see no sign of shipping revival in Strait of Hormuz despite US-Iran ceasefire
Thursday 9 April 2026 13:32 , James ReynoldsThe Strait of Hormuz remains mostly closed to commercial shipping despite a tentative ceasefire between America and Iran.
Vessel-tracking services are showing almost no change in traffic, while analysts are warning that Tehran’s toll system for transit is fully intact.
Experts told The Independent that the first two days of the ceasefire have not shown any meaningful changes on the water:
Experts see no sign of shipping revival in Strait of Hormuz despite US-Iran ceasefire
Netanyahu's trial to resume on Sunday
Thursday 9 April 2026 13:21 , James ReynoldsA corruption trial for Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to resume on Sunday with the end of a wartime freeze.
Netanyahu is expected at the Jerusalem District Court for the testimony of a defence witness on Sunday, according to the court notice.
The notice says that the end of emergency status will see hearings resume on Sundays in Jerusalem and Mondays through Wednesdays in Tel Aviv, per JPost.
Why is Netanyahu on trial for corruption - and could he be pardoned?
Israeli fire kills girl student in Gaza, medics say
Thursday 9 April 2026 13:15 , James ReynoldsIsraeli forces shot and killed a young female student on Thursday while she was attending a class held in a tent in the town of Beit Lahiya in the northern Gaza Strip, health and education officials said.
The education ministry said third-grade student Ritaj Rihan was hit by a bullet in front of her classmates, causing them "a strong psychological shock."
The Israeli military did not immediately comment on the incident.
Starmer wins public approval for handling of war as fears over energy costs rise
Thursday 9 April 2026 13:00 , David MaddoxNew polling by Ipsos UK has revealed that net approval for Sir Keir Starmer’s cautious handling of the war has increased by nine points in the last month with 30 per cent now believing he is doing a good job.
At the same time, disapproval of Donald Trump’s war on Iran has risen by nine points to 65 per cent among the 1,136 UK voters polled.
But the survey also reveals that 68 per cent want Sir Keir to cancel his planned 5p hike in fuel duty next September.
There are high levels of concern over the impact of the conflict on the price of fuel and energy (86 per cent). Four in five (80 per cent) Britons are concerned about the availability of fuel (gas, petrol, and oil) within the UK.
Around three in five are similarly concerned about the availability of wider goods, such as food and toiletries, and medical supplies.
Israeli attacks on Lebanon 'blatant violation of ceasefire', says Iranian president
Thursday 9 April 2026 12:48 , James ReynoldsIranian president Masoud Pezeshkian follows Ghalibaf’s post, writing that Israel’s attacks in Lebanon are a “blatant violation of the initial ceasefire agreement”.
Iran, and mediator Pakistan, maintains that the deal with the US included a ceasefire in Lebanon, where Israel has been fighting Hezbollah. The US and Israel say that it was not included.
“This is a dangerous sign of deception and lack of commitment to potential agreements,” says Pezeshkian. “The continuation of these actions will render negotiations meaningless.
“Our fingers remain on the trigger. Iran will never abandon its Lebanese sisters and brothers.”
Hezbollah fires 30 rockets back at Israel, IDF says
Thursday 9 April 2026 12:44 , James ReynoldsThe IDF is reporting that Hezbollah has fired around 30 missiles towards north Israel since this morning.
For context, Hezbollah had initially agreed to respect the US-Iranian truce, but said it was resuming attacks this morning after Israel said it was not included in the ceasefire deal.
Iran doubles down: Lebanon must be included in ceasefire
Thursday 9 April 2026 12:41 , James ReynoldsIn a post on social media, Iran’s parliament speaker insists that Lebanon must be included in the ceasefire agreement.
He says that Pakistan’s prime minister clearly stressed this point, and warns that violations carry “explicit costs”.
— محمدباقر قالیباف | MB Ghalibaf (@mb_ghalibaf) April 9, 2026
Shipping at standstill through Hormuz despite ceasefire
Thursday 9 April 2026 12:40 , Maira ButtOnly one oil products tanker and five separate dry bulk carriers have passed through the Strait of Hormuz in the past 24 hours despite Iran and the US agreeing to a two-week ceasefire deal, according to data from Kpler, Lloyd’s List Intelligence and Signal Ocean.
Traffic remains at a virtual standstill. Over 140 vessels sailed through the vital waterway on a daily basis before war broke out on 28 February.
Recap: Israeli strikes ongoing in Lebanon as confusion surrounds ceasefire
Thursday 9 April 2026 12:24 , James ReynoldsIsrael bombed more targets in Lebanon on Thursday, after its biggest attacks of the war killed more than 250 people yesterday and threatened to torpedo the truce from the outset.
Israel struck Beirut's southern suburbs just before midnight and at dawn, and hit towns across the south on Thursday morning, Lebanese state media said.
The IDF said it had killed the nephew of Hezbollah's Secretary-General Naim Qassem, and had struck river crossings overnight.
Hezbollah said it was resuming attacks the other way on Thursday morning and had fired once across the border and twice at Israeli forces in southern Lebanon.
Iran commemorates 40 days since death of slain supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei
Thursday 9 April 2026 12:20 , Maira Butt
Oil prices rise amid ceasefire uncertainty as Iran warns Strait of Hormuz may be mined
Thursday 9 April 2026 12:00 , Maira ButtIran has warned that ships transiting through the Strait of Hormuz may be hit by “anti-ship mines in the main transit routes” due to the “state of war” as it advised vessels to follow alternative paths.
The notice by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps was released a day after confusion ensued over a fragile Pakistan-brokered ceasefire between the US and Iran.
Iran and Pakistan say the 14-day truce included Lebanon but Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the White House say it did not. Oil prices rose again amid the uncertainty.
Uranium, sanctions and the Strait of Hormuz: The key sticking points between US and Iran ahead of talks in Islamabad
Thursday 9 April 2026 11:32 , Maira ButtThe ceasefire agreement between Iran and the United States looked increasingly fragile on Thursday as Washington dismissed a string of key demands and Tehran appeared to hold its grip on the Strait of Hormuz.
Donald Trump overnight rubbished a widely reported 10-point plan that Iran said Washington had already agreed to in principle to serve as a basis for future peace talks.
Iran made clear the ceasefire was conditional on an end to hostilities in Lebanon, as the White House said the deal did not include Israel’s parallel war with Hezbollah.
James C Reynolds reports:
Netanyahu says Israel will continue to attack Lebanon
Thursday 9 April 2026 11:12 , Maira ButtIsraeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that his government will continue to attack Lebanon in a statement released on Thursday.
Over 1,500 people have been killed in six weeks with over 200 killed on Wednesday alone.
The actions have sparked international calls for the country to be included within a two-week ceasefire between Iran and the US.
But Netanyahu said on Thursday that the operation, which he says is to defeat Hezbollah, will continue.
“Whoever acts against Israeli civilians will be struck,” he said.
“We will continue to strike Hezbollah wherever required, until we restore full security to the residents of the north.”
British-Palestinian surgeon treating wounded in Beirut after Israeli strikes describes ‘absolute massacre’
Thursday 9 April 2026 10:48 , Maira ButtBel Trew and Mohammad Dawood report:
A British-Palestinian surgeon working in Beirut has described the aftermath of Israeli strikes as an “absolute massacre,” as hospitals struggle to cope with a surge of casualties.
At least 182 people have been killed in Lebanon after Israel launched what it described as its largest wave of air strikes in the conflict, hitting more than 100 targets in just 10 minutes on Wednesday (8 April).
Speaking to The Independent, Ghassan Abu Sittah said patients began arriving almost simultaneously, “And so the emergency departments have been flooded across the whole of Beirut,” he said.
The surgeon described the situation as “horrendous”.
“A lot of people brought in are dead, a lot of children with severe injuries,” he said.
Lebanon must be included in ceasefire agreement, says EU's top diplomat
Thursday 9 April 2026 10:28 , Maira ButtThe European Union’s top diplomat has called for a US-Iran ceasefire agreement to be extended to Lebanon on Thursday.
A fragile two-week truce brokered by Pakistan has been thrown into uncertainty as Iran and Pakistan said the agreement included Lebanon but the US and Israel have said it did not.
“Israeli actions are putting the U.S.-Iran ceasefire under severe strain. The Iran truce should extend to Lebanon,” Kaja Kallas said in a post on X.
“Israeli strikes killed hundreds last night, making it hard to argue that such heavy-handed actions fall within self-defence.”
Iran says US 'must choose' whether it wants war or peace
Thursday 9 April 2026 10:05 , Maira ButtIranian deputy foreign minister Saeed Khatibzadeh has criticised the US after a tenuous ceasefire struggled to hold overnight with Israeli bombing of Lebanon intensifying.
“You cannot ask for a ceasefire and then accept terms and conditions, accept all the areas that a ceasefire is applied to, and name Lebanon, exactly Lebanon in that, and then your ally [Israel] just starts a massacre,” he told the BBC’s Today programme.
He added that the US “must choose” whether it wants war or peace.
“They cannot have it both at the same time,” they said.
“They are mutually exclusive, it is quite clear.”
The Iran ceasefire is a relief but not a cure for the madness Trump has brought the world
Thursday 9 April 2026 09:45 , Stuti MishraThe welcome news of a ceasefire in the Israeli-US war against Iran, for a two-week period to open trade through the Persian Gulf while Iran’s regime reels from an onslaught that Donald Trump threatened would erase a civilisation, suits one man most – Vladimir Putin.
The rest of the world has been left reeling and impoverished by an illegal conflict.
Iran ceasefire is a relief but not cure for the madness Trump has brought the world
Trump threatens ‘bigger, better, stronger’ attacks if Iran doesn’t make ‘real’ agreement
Thursday 9 April 2026 09:30 , Maira ButtPresident Donald Trump has warned that “bigger, and better, and stronger” attacks could be unleashed on Iran if a “real” agreement between the U.S. and the Islamic Republic is not reached.
The two countries announced a two-week ceasefire late Tuesday, shortly after Trump warned that a “whole civilisation will die.”
In his April 9 post, Trump warned that U.S. military assets will remain in place around Iran, which he described as a “substantially degraded enemy.”
Read the full story below
Trump threatens ‘bigger, stronger’ attacks if Iran doesn’t make ‘real’ agreement
Watch Live: View of Lebanon as Israel continues strikes
Thursday 9 April 2026 09:25 , Maira ButtIn pictures: Aftermath of Israeli strikes on Lebanon
Thursday 9 April 2026 09:07 , Maira Butt
Israeli military says right-hand man and nephew of Hezbollah chief killed
Thursday 9 April 2026 09:01 , Maira ButtIsrael’s military has said that it has killed the nephew of Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem.
It said it “struck in the Beirut area and eliminated Ali Yusuf Harshi, the personal secretary and nephew of Hezbollah Secretary-General Naim Qassem,” in a statement.
Hezbollah is yet to confirm the incident.
PM Starmer arrives in UAE to meet Gulf allies
Thursday 9 April 2026 08:46 , Maira ButtPrime minister Keir Starmer has landed in the United Arab Emirates to meet with allies in the Gulf amid a fragile truce between the US and Iran.
Meeting with crown prince Mohammed bin Salman in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, the British leader said that work was needed to ensure the halt in fighting was “not a temporary ceasefire but a permanent ceasefire”.
He was welcomed by Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Executive Affairs Authority, at the airport in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates on Thursday.
Australian prime minister says Lebanon should be included in ceasefire
Thursday 9 April 2026 08:30 , Rachel DobkinAustralian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has said Lebanon should be included in the US-Iran ceasefire.
Albanese said the two-week ceasefire is “fragile”, but Australia wants it to “lead to an agreement.”
“The Australian government also firmly believes that this has to apply to Lebanon as well”, he said in a video shared by SBS News. “We want to see peace in this region”.
Israel unleashed a heavy bombardment on Lebanon Wednesday. Israel has said the ceasefire doesn’t apply to Lebanon.
Trump rants ‘NATO wasn’t there’ as he reportedly weighs plans to punish allies unhelpful with Iran war
Thursday 9 April 2026 08:15 , Stuti Mishra
Trump rants ‘NATO wasn’t there’ as he reportedly weighs plans to punish allies
In pictures: New Yorkers protest Iran war
Thursday 9 April 2026 08:00 , Rachel Dobkin
Iran delegation heads to Islamabad for ‘serious talks’ as Trump warns of stronger strikes
Thursday 9 April 2026 07:35 , Stuti MishraAn Iranian delegation is set to arrive in Islamabad for talks aimed at resolving the conflict with the US and Israel, as tensions remain high despite a fragile ceasefire.
Iran’s ambassador to Pakistan, Reza Amiri Moghadam, said the team would reach the Pakistani capital tonight for negotiations based on proposals put forward by Tehran.
“Despite skepticism of Iranian public opinion due to repeated ceasefire violations by Israeli regime ... Iranian delegation arrives tonight in Islamabad for serious talks based on 10 points proposed by Iran,” he said in a post on X.
The talks come as both sides test the limits of a recently announced ceasefire, with continued strikes in Lebanon fuelling uncertainty over whether it will hold.
Pakistan has shut down offices in its capital city ahead of the talks in what is being seen as a heightened security measure [see post below for details]
Hours earlier, Donald Trump said the US would maintain a military presence in the region until what he described as a “real agreement” is secured.
Posting on Truth Social, he said American forces would remain in place with additional “Ammunition, Weaponry, and anything else that is appropriate and necessary”.
UK foreign secretary says escalation from Israel 'deeply damaging'
Thursday 9 April 2026 07:18 , Maira ButtBritain’s foreign secretary Yvette Cooper has said that “escalation from Israel on Wednesday was deeply damaging” as confusion ensued following a US-Iran ceasefire agreed earlier this week.
Israeli strikes on Lebanon have continued as both the White House and Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu argued that Lebanon was not included in a deal to stop strikes on Iran in exchange for a reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran and Pakistan, which brokered the deal independently, both said that the halting of strikes on Lebanon were a part of the agreement. Iran’s deputy foreign minister called the attacks a “grave violation”.
Ms Cooper insisted that Lebanon must be a part of the deal.
“We want to see Lebanon included in the ceasefire,” she told Times Radio on Thursday.
“We want it extended to cover Lebanon, because otherwise that will destabilise the whole region.
“That escalation that we saw from Israel yesterday was deeply damaging, and we want to see an end to hostilities.”
On Wednesday French president Emmanuel Macron also called for attacks on Lebanon to be stopped.
Trump 'clearly disappointed' with Nato, Rutte says after White House meeting
Thursday 9 April 2026 07:00 , Stuti MishraNato chief Mark Rutte said Donald Trump was “clearly disappointed” with the alliance’s response to the Iran war after what he described as a “very frank, very open discussion” at the White House.
Speaking to CNN after the talks, Mr Rutte said: “Let me be absolutely clear, he is clearly disappointed and with many Nato allies, and I can see his point.”
“The large majority of European nations have been helpful with basing, with logistics, with overflights, with making sure that they lived up to their commitments.”
But the meeting failed to calm Trump’s anger, with the US president later posting on Truth Social: “NATO WASN’T THERE WHEN WE NEEDED THEM, AND THEY WON’T BE THERE IF WE NEED THEM AGAIN.”
UN warns Israel strikes in Lebanon put Iran ceasefire at ‘grave risk’
Thursday 9 April 2026 06:45 , Stuti Mishra
Pakistan shuts Islamabad offices and steps up security ahead of US–Iran talks
Thursday 9 April 2026 06:30 , Stuti MishraPakistan has declared two local holidays in its capital, Islamabad, ahead of planned talks between the United States and Iran, with authorities giving no official reason for the move.
A notification issued late last evening by the Islamabad district administration confirmed the business closures from today, just as the city prepares to host high-level negotiations linked to the fragile ceasefire between Washington and Tehran.
While officials did not explain the decision, the measure is being seen as a security and logistical control ahead of sensitive diplomatic events in the capital.
Starmer calls for urgent action to reopen Hormuz after meeting with Saudi crown prince
Thursday 9 April 2026 06:15 , Stuti MishraKeir Starmer met Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, warning that the fragile Iran ceasefire must hold to stabilise energy supplies.
Downing Street said the prime minister stressed “it was vital now to continue work to reopen the Strait of Hormuz”, as the UK works with allies to “agree and plan the practical steps required to give shipping the confidence to transit the Strait”.
Speaking during his visit, Mr Starmer said there was a “sense of real relief” after the pause in fighting, but cautioned it was “early days”.
“There is still a lot of work to do,” he said, adding the aim was to ensure “this ceasefire should be not a temporary ceasefire but a permanent ceasefire”.
“It is very important we get the Strait of Hormuz open. There is a lot of work to do there.”
Israel hits 100 targets in 10 minutes in Lebanon, killing 182
Thursday 9 April 2026 06:00 , Stuti MishraAt least 182 people have been killed in Lebanon after Israel launched what it described as its largest wave of air strikes in the conflict, hitting more than 100 targets in just 10 minutes.
The strikes targeted areas including Beirut’s southern suburbs, southern Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley.
A total of 254 people were killed and over 1,100 wounded across Lebanon, the country's civil defence service said. The highest toll was in Beirut, where 91 people were killed.
Israel said it struck Hezbollah command centres and military sites, as fighting continues despite a ceasefire with Iran that does not cover Lebanon.
Vance signals Israel may rein in Lebanon strikes to safeguard US-Iran truce
Thursday 9 April 2026 05:45 , Stuti MishraIsrael is expected to scale back its attacks on Lebanon in an effort to preserve the ceasefire with Iran, US vice-president JD Vance has suggested.
Mr Vance said Israeli officials had indicated they were willing to “check themselves a little bit in Lebanon” to ensure ongoing negotiations succeed.
“They want to make sure that our negotiation is successful,” he said, signalling a possible de-escalation after strikes in Beirut raised fears of the ceasefire unravelling.
Tensions have persisted despite the truce, with Iran shutting the Strait of Hormuz and warning it could resume hostilities with the United States in response to Israeli attacks in Lebanon.
Washington has maintained that Lebanon is not covered under the ceasefire, even as Israel continues to target Hezbollah, which it describes as an Iranian proxy.
Mr Vance acknowledged there were disagreements over the scope of the deal.
“It’s a legitimate misunderstanding,” he said, adding that Iranian officials had believed the ceasefire extended to Lebanon “and it just didn’t”.
The vice-president, who is due to lead further talks alongside US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, also dismissed claims from a senior Iranian official that Washington had violated the agreement.
Iran has accused the US of breaching the ceasefire and earlier launched strikes on a key oil pipeline in Saudi Arabia, while Gulf states reported multiple drone attacks.
Trump says US forces will stay in place around Iran until 'real agreement' otherwise ‘shootin starts, bigger, and better'
Thursday 9 April 2026 05:25 , Stuti MishraDonald Trump has warned US forces will remain “in, and around, Iran” with additional “ammunition, weaponry, and anything else that is appropriate and necessary” until a “REAL AGREEMENT” is fully complied with.
“If for any reason it is not… then the ‘shootin’ starts,’ bigger, and better, and stronger than anyone has ever seen before,” he wrote on Truth Social.
Mr Trump said it had long been agreed there would be “NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS” and that the Strait of Hormuz would remain “OPEN & SAFE”.
“In the meantime our great Military is Loading Up and Resting, looking forward… to its next Conquest,” he added.
Oil climbs again and Asian stocks turn cautious over ceasefire concerns
Thursday 9 April 2026 05:10 , Stuti MishraAsian stocks turned cautious this morning as oil prices edged higher again, with investors reassessing risks from the fragile Gulf ceasefire.
Crude prices rose after a sharp drop yesterday, with US futures up 2.8 per cent to $96.99 a barrel and Brent gaining 2.1 per cent to $96.74, as uncertainty persisted over access through the Strait of Hormuz.
Asian equity markets lost momentum after a sharp rally in the previous session. Japan’s Nikkei hovered around flat, while South Korea slipped 0.4 per cent. A broader index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan fell 0.3 per cent.
Futures for US stocks also dipped, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq both down 0.2 per cent.
Investors remain wary that higher energy prices could feed into inflation, with oil still around 40 per cent above pre-conflict levels.
"You have a fifth of the world's oil supply moving through a corridor that is still effectively under the influence of one of the parties to the conflict," Nigel Green, CEO at deVere Group told Reuters. "That's not stability."
"You don't need a full blockade to move oil markets sharply higher again," he added. "Missiles are still being launched in the Gulf, Israel is still engaged on another front, and yet markets are behaving as though the region has normalised."
