US President Donald Trump claimed that China is backing his efforts to keep the Strait of Hormuz permanently open, asserting that the move benefits both Beijing and the global economy. He also said Chinese President Xi Jinping had agreed not to supply weapons to Iran following direct communication between the two leaders. Trump Highlights Personal Diplomacy With China In a post on Truth Social, Trump struck an upbeat and personal tone while describing his ties with Xi Jinping. “President Xi will give me a big, fat hug when I get there in a few weeks,” he said, suggesting strong rapport and cooperation between Washington and Beijing. “China is very happy that I am permanently opening the Strait of Hormuz. I am doing it for them, also - And the World. This situation will never happen again. They have agreed not to send weapons to Iran…” - President Donald J. Trump pic.twitter.com/g2LbmMJS5a — The White House (@WhiteHouse) April 15, 2026 He added that both sides are “working together smartly” and emphasised that cooperation is preferable to conflict, even as tensions remain high in West Asia. Strait of Hormuz at Centre of Strategic Push Trump stated that ensuring the uninterrupted functioning of the Strait of Hormuz is a key objective of his approach, describing it as a move done for China “and the world.” The waterway remains one of the most critical global oil transit routes and has been at the centre of rising tensions following recent military developments involving Iran. He claimed that China is “very happy” with the decision, indicating that Beijing sees value in stability in the region’s energy supply routes. Claim on China Halting Arms to Iran Trump further asserted that China has agreed not to send weapons to Iran, positioning the development as a diplomatic success. He linked this understanding to his direct engagement with Xi Jinping, including an exchange of letters addressing concerns over alleged military support to Tehran. According to Trump, China reassured the United States that it is not involved in supplying arms to Iran. Strong Warning Alongside Cooperation Despite highlighting cooperation, Trump also issued a firm warning about US military strength. He stated that while diplomacy remains the preferred path, the United States is fully capable of responding decisively if required. This dual messaging reflects a broader strategy of combining diplomatic outreach with a strong security posture. Pressure Campaign and Regional Tensions The remarks come amid increasing pressure from Washington on countries accused of supporting Iran’s military capabilities. Trump reiterated that nations found aiding Tehran could face severe economic consequences, including high tariffs. He also defended recent US military actions targeting Iranian nuclear facilities, arguing that they were necessary to prevent a larger threat. Trump maintained that Iran was close to developing nuclear weapons and that intervention was essential. Blockade and Global Response Trump expressed confidence that the US-led blockade of Iranian ports has received limited resistance from major global players, including China and Saudi Arabia. He suggested that the move has helped stabilise the region and reduce the risk of further escalation.
15 April,2026 08:35 PM IST | Washington | mid-day online correspondentPresident Donald Trump has once again targeted Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, expressing frustration over his handling of interest rates, reported the AFP. President Trump has repeatedly criticised Powell for not cutting rates aggressively and said he may take action if Powell continues beyond his term which ends in mid-May. In an interview with Fox Business, Trump said, “I’ll have to fire him… if he is not leaving on time.” He also added, “I’ve wanted to fire him,” reported AFP. How powerful is the FED chair? The Federal Reserve Chair is one of the most powerful economic policymakers in the world. The role is less about “giving orders” and more about guiding the entire US monetary system. Their biggest power is influence over interest rates, financial stability and market expectations. Dispute over term and leadership Powell’s current term as head of the Federal Reserve is set to end in mid-May. While it is uncommon, a Fed chair can remain on the board even after their leadership term ends. However, Trump’s comments suggest he expects Powell to step down completely once his term concludes. Powell was first appointed as Fed Chair during Trump’s presidency in 2018 and was later reappointed in 2022 under President Joe Biden. The Trump administration has also launched an investigation into Powell over alleged cost overruns related to renovation work at the Federal Reserve. When asked if the Justice Department probe would be dropped, Trump said, “I’m not playing. I have to find out,” reported the news agency. The administration has also moved against other Fed officials, including efforts to remove Governor Lisa Cook. Powell's successor Warsh faces hurdles Trump has nominated former central banker Kevin Warsh as Powell’s successor. Warsh is scheduled to appear before the Senate Banking Committee for his confirmation hearing next week. However, his nomination is facing challenges. Some lawmakers have raised concerns that the investigation into Powell could be seen as political pressure on the central bank. The situation highlights growing tensions between the White House and the independent Federal Reserve. The outcome of the nomination process and investigation will determine whether Powell continues in his role or is replaced in the coming months. Senate opposition may delay process Republican Senator Thom Tillis has said he will block Warsh’s nomination until the investigation is resolved. As long as the nomination remains pending, Powell can legally continue in his position as Fed Chair. (With AFP Inputs)
15 April,2026 08:22 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentUS President Donald Trump said that China has agreed not to supply weapons to Iran. He stated that he received this assurance directly from Chinese President Xi Jinping through a personal exchange, according to the AFP. "They have agreed not to send weapons to Iran. President Xi will give me a big, fat, hug when I get there in a few weeks," Trump wrote on Truth Social, referring to his planned May 14-15 summit with Xi in Beijing, reported AFP. Trump explained that he had written to Xi after hearing reports that China might be supplying weapons to Iran. He said, “I wrote him a letter asking him not to do that, and he wrote me a letter saying that essentially he's not doing that.” In an interview, Trump added that Xi had “essentially” promised that China would not deliver weapons to Iran, reported the news agency. Talks come amid Middle East tensions The development comes at a time when tensions in the Middle East remain high. The situation has also affected relations between the United States and China. China recently criticised the US for its actions in the region, calling the blockade of Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz “dangerous and irresponsible.” At the same time, China said it would play a constructive role in promoting peace. Trump, however, defended his actions, saying he was working to keep global trade routes open. He stated, “China is very happy that I am permanently opening the Strait of Hormuz.” China’s ties with Iran China is Iran’s largest trading partner and a major buyer of its oil. This makes the issue of weapons supply and regional stability especially important for global markets. Cyber tensions highlighted Trump was also asked about reports of a possible Chinese cyber attack on the FBI. While he did not confirm the claims, he acknowledged ongoing cyber activity between the two countries. He said, “We do it to them. They do it to us.” Despite these tensions, Trump maintained that relations with China are progressing saying, "China's China," he said. "They're never easy, but we're doing great with China," he added. Trump: “The toughest person” on China The upcoming Trump-Xi summit, which was earlier delayed, is expected to address several key issues, including trade, security and regional conflicts. Trump described himself as “the toughest person” on China, signalling that discussions may remain firm despite ongoing cooperation. (With AFP Inputs)
15 April,2026 08:20 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA team of officials from India’s Commerce Ministry is set to travel to Washington next week to hold trade discussions with US officials. According to officials, the meeting will continue earlier discussions on an interim trade agreement between the two countries and help move negotiations forward, reported IANS. The talks come ahead of the planned visit of US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to New Delhi next month, adding importance to the ongoing engagement. With both sides preparing for high-level engagement, the upcoming talks are expected to help clarify outstanding trade issues and keep negotiations on track ahead of further diplomatic exchanges. Focus on interim trade agreement The upcoming discussions will focus on building on earlier progress made in negotiations for a bilateral trade deal between India and the United States. Officials said both sides have already held multiple rounds of discussions, and the Washington meeting is expected to take these talks further. A senior official said the engagement will help “take forward discussions that have already been held on the interim trade agreement,” reported the news agency. Why was the visit postponed earlier? Earlier, a planned meeting between the chief trade negotiators of both countries scheduled for February 23 in the US was postponed. This happened after the US Supreme Court struck down President Donald Trump’s broad reciprocal tariff hikes, saying the executive branch had exceeded its authority by using emergency powers for such measures. Following this ruling, India and the US decided to review the developments before fixing a new date for talks. After the court setback, tariffs in the US were later increased from 10 per cent to 15 per cent. India and the US had earlier reached an advanced stage in finalising the first phase of a bilateral trade agreement. The Trump administration had reportedly agreed to reduce tariffs on Indian goods to 18 per cent. However, officials said the tariff structure changed after the Supreme Court ruling, affecting the earlier progress. The postponement of the Indian delegation’s visit was intended to allow both sides to reassess the situation and decide a suitable time to resume talks. Issues on forced labour investigation The upcoming meeting is also expected to address a separate issue involving the United States Trade Representative (USTR). The USTR has launched a Section 301 investigation covering India and several other countries, including China and nearly 60 economies. The investigation will examine whether policies related to banning and enforcing restrictions on goods made using forced labour are adequate. It will also assess whether such practices affect US trade interests, as per the news agency. Officials said this issue is likely to be part of broader trade discussions during the Washington visit. (With IANS Inputs)
15 April,2026 08:02 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentAt least 250 people, including Rohingya refugees and Bangladeshi nationals, were missing after a boat capsized in the Andaman Sea recently on the way to Malaysia, according to the United Nations' refugee and migration agencies. While details remained sketchy, Bangladesh Coast Guard spokesperson Lt. Com. Sabbir Alam Suzan told The Associated Press on Wednesday that nine people, including three Rohingya and six Bangladeshis, were rescued on April 9. Suzan said the Bangladesh flag carrier M.T. Meghna Pride rescued the nine people when the crew found them floating at sea after the capsize. When the boat sank and the status of any search Wednesday were unclear. The UN high commissioner for refugees and the International Organisation for Migration in a joint statement said Tuesday that the trawler departed from Teknaf in the southern Bangladeshi district of Cox's Bazar carrying a large number of passengers to Malaysia. Overcrowding, strong winds and rough seas caused the vessel to lose control and sink, the agencies said. Shari Nijman, a UNCHR communication officer in Cox's Bazar, said Wednesday that the agency had no other updates. Another coast guard media official told the AP by phone Wednesday that the rescued people, eight men and one woman, were all safe after being handed over to the coast guard, who brought them to the police in Teknaf. The official said the rescue was not part of any official search operation as it is outside Bangladesh territory, and that the crew of the M.T. Meghna Pride saved the people while it was on its way to Indonesia from Bangladesh's Chittagong. The official spoke by phone on condition of anonymity in line with official policy. UNHCR and IOM said the disappearance reflected the protracted displacement of Rohingya people and the absence of durable solutions. They said ongoing violence in Myanmar's Rakhine state has made the Rohingya's safe return to Myanmar uncertain, while limited humanitarian assistance, as well as restricted access to education and employment in refugee camps, continue to push vulnerable Rohingya refugees to choose risky sea journeys, often based on false promises of higher wages and better opportunities abroad. UNHCR and IOM urged the international community to strengthen funding and solidarity to ensure lifesaving assistance for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, which has sheltered more than 1 million Rohingya from Myanmar. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
15 April,2026 08:02 PM IST | Dhaka | APIran’s prolonged digital shutdown has entered its 47th day, with internet monitoring organisations warning of an unprecedented level of disruption as the country remains largely cut off from global connectivity. The situation has raised serious concerns about access to information, communication, and civil liberties during a period of heightened geopolitical tensions, reported ANI. 1,104 Hours of Digital Isolation Raises Alarm According to NetBlocks, Iran has now experienced over 1,104 hours of near-total international internet disruption. The watchdog described the blackout as one of the most extensive in recent history, effectively isolating millions of citizens from the global digital ecosystem, reported ANI. While limited domestic networks continue to function, access to international platforms remains severely restricted. Experts say this has created a significant information vacuum, limiting the flow of independent news and restricting communication with the outside world. Protests and Conflict Trigger Tighter Restrictions The current wave of internet restrictions began following renewed domestic protests in early January. Authorities gradually imposed tighter controls, which were further intensified amid escalating military tensions involving Iran, the United States, and Israel toward the end of February. Monitoring groups suggest that the convergence of internal unrest and external conflict has contributed to the scale and duration of the blackout. The restrictions have not only disrupted everyday communication but have also impacted businesses, education, and access to critical services, reported ANI. Government Defiance Amid Diplomatic Strain Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has strongly pushed back against what he described as external pressure and military aggression. In remarks carried by ISNA, Pezeshkian reiterated that Iran remains open to dialogue but will not yield to coercion, reported ANI. He emphasised that attempts to impose external will on Iran would fail, asserting the country’s commitment to sovereignty and independence. His comments come amid reports of stalled diplomatic engagements and the possibility of renewed talks between Tehran and Washington, reported ANI. Questions Raised Over Military Actions Pezeshkian also questioned the legality and humanitarian implications of recent military actions, particularly those attributed to US and Israeli forces. He raised concerns about alleged strikes affecting civilian infrastructure, including schools and hospitals, and called into question their justification under international law, reported ANI. The remarks reflect growing tensions on the ground, with both sides exchanging strong rhetoric even as fragile ceasefire efforts continue in the region. US-Led Blockade Intensifies Economic Pressure The digital blackout coincides with a major escalation in economic and military pressure. United States Central Command confirmed the implementation of a full maritime blockade targeting Iranian ports, effectively halting a significant portion of the country’s trade, reported ANI. According to CENTCOM, US forces established control over key waterways, including the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, within 36 hours of initiating the operation. Officials stated that maritime trade into and out of Iran has been largely suspended, dealing a severe blow to the country’s economy, which heavily relies on sea-based commerce, reported ANI. The operation reportedly involves over 10,000 personnel, supported by multiple warships and aircraft, underscoring the scale of the ongoing military mobilisation. Crisis Deepens Across Digital and Physical Fronts As Iran faces simultaneous digital isolation and economic blockade, analysts warn of far-reaching consequences for both domestic stability and regional security. The combination of restricted communication channels and intensifying military pressure has placed the country in a uniquely precarious position, with no immediate resolution in sight. (With inputs from ANI)
15 April,2026 05:19 PM IST | Tehran | mid-day online correspondentUS President Donald Trump has said that the ongoing conflict with Iran is “close to over”, suggesting that the situation could stabilise soon, reported the PTI. In an interview with Fox News, recorded on Tuesday, Trump stated that he believes the war is nearing its end and claimed that if the United States withdrew now, Iran would take decades to recover. "I think it's close to over, yeah. I view it as very close to being over," Trump told Fox News in an interview that will be telecast later Wednesday. The comments came shortly after United States Central Command announced that it had effectively blocked maritime traffic to and from Iranian ports within the first 24 hours of a US-led blockade. The US said the move was aimed at ensuring freedom of navigation through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. In an interview for the programme "Mornings with Maria", he said, "I think it's - I had to divert because if I didn't do that, right now you'd have Iran with a nuclear weapon. And if they had a nuclear weapon, you'd be calling everyone over there 'sir,' and you don't want to do that." Nuclear concerns highlighted According to the PTI, Trump defended his actions by stating that intervention was necessary to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons. He reiterated that allowing Iran to acquire such capabilities would pose a serious global threat and insisted that his administration remains firm on preventing that outcome. Talks in Islamabad may resume Despite ongoing tensions, diplomatic efforts appear to be continuing. Recent talks between the US and Iran in Islamabad failed to produce an agreement, the news agency reported. However, Trump indicated that a second round of discussions could take place within days, signalling a possible path towards de-escalation, the news agency reported. Pakistan’s role in mediation Trump praised Asim Munir for his role in facilitating dialogue, suggesting that Pakistan’s involvement has increased the likelihood of further negotiations, as per the PTI. He did not confirm whether key members of the US negotiating team, including Vice President JD Vance, would continue to lead future talks. The US President emphasised that he does not want Iran to feel it has gained any advantage from the conflict. He rejected suggestions of a long-term moratorium, reiterating that preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons remains a top priority. (with PTI inputs)
15 April,2026 04:03 PM IST | Washington | mid-day online correspondentSaudi Arabia has agreed to provide Pakistan with additional financial assistance worth USD 3 billion, while also extending its earlier USD 5 billion deposit facility for three more years. According to Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, the existing deposit arrangement will no longer follow yearly renewal and will instead be extended for a longer duration. He said, “Saudi Arabia has pledged an additional USD 3 billion in deposits for Pakistan and has extended its existing USD 5 billion facility for a further three years,” reported PTI. The financial assistance comes at a crucial time for Pakistan, which is preparing to repay USD 3.5 billion to the United Arab Emirates this month. The country is also facing pressure on its foreign exchange reserves. Officials said the fresh support will help stabilise Pakistan’s external account and strengthen its reserve position at a sensitive time. How will this financial support help? Finance Minister Aurangzeb said the new support will play an important role in improving financial stability. He noted, “The fresh Saudi support comes at a critical time for Pakistan’s external financing needs and will help bolster foreign exchange reserves and strengthen the external account,” as per the news agency. The extended Saudi financial support is also expected to provide short-term relief to Pakistan’s external financing pressures. However, officials continue to focus on meeting repayment obligations and maintaining stability under the IMF programme. The announcement was made during his visit to Washington on the sidelines of the World Bank-IMF Spring Meetings 2026. The announcement also comes ahead of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s scheduled visits to Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkiye from April 15 to 18. These visits are expected to further discuss economic and diplomatic cooperation. IMF-linked conditions and external obligations Pakistan is currently under an IMF-supported programme, which includes conditions related to maintaining financial discipline. The IMF has asked key bilateral partners such as Saudi Arabia, China, and the UAE to keep their deposits in Pakistan until the programme is completed, reported the news agency. Aurangzeb said the government remains committed to meeting its obligations and maintaining reserves in line with IMF targets and market requirements. (With PTI Inputs)
15 April,2026 03:47 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentTwo Israeli strikes on Wednesday hit vehicles south of Beirut, state media reported, while Hezbollah launched rockets at Israel, hours after Lebanon and Israel agreed to hold direct negotiations. Israel is continuing its strikes on southern Lebanon in its war with Iran-backed Hezbollah, but has not targeted the Lebanese capital since a series of attacks across the country on April 8 that killed more than 350 people. Lebanon's state-run National News Agency reported two separate Israeli strikes on two vehicles, one in the seafront town of Saadiyat and another on a coastal highway in neighbouring Jiyeh, around 20 kilometres (12 miles) south of Beirut and outside Hezbollah's traditional strongholds. NNA also reported several other strikes across southern Lebanon. The Israeli military meanwhile said it had detected "approximately 30 launches" by Hezbollah militants towards Israel since the early hours, a spokesman told AFP. Hezbollah said it launched rockets at 10 northern Israeli areas. The attacks come a day after Lebanon and Israel's ambassadors to the United States held their first direct talks in decades in Washington and agreed to hold further direct negotiations, with the Lebanese envoy calling for a ceasefire. Hezbollah strongly rejected the talks. Israeli attacks on Lebanon have killed more than 2,000 people and displaced more than a million since March 2, according to Lebanese authorities. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
15 April,2026 02:07 PM IST | Beirut, Lebanon | AFPIndia and Germany held the Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) in Berlin on Tuesday, during which the two sides formally launched the logo commemorating 75 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. According to a press release by the Ministry of External Affairs on Wednesday, the consultations were co-chaired by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and State Secretary of the German Foreign Office Geza Andreas von Geyr, during which both sides reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral ties and explored ways to further deepen the India-Germany Strategic Partnership. Discussions also covered trade and investment, defence and security, technology cooperation, green and sustainable development, mobility, and people-to-people exchanges. The meeting is especially significant in 2025, as India and Germany mark 75 years of diplomatic relations, building upon their Strategic Partnership, which reached its 25th anniversary. Both sides also agreed to expand cooperation in emerging areas such as critical and emerging technologies, industrial collaboration, digital governance, renewable energy, green hydrogen, innovation, and development cooperation in third countries. The two delegations also exchanged views on major regional and global developments, including the situation in West Asia and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. "The discussions provided an opportunity for both sides to take stock of the current status of bilateral relations and explore avenues for further deepening the India-Germany Strategic Partnership. During the Consultations, both sides undertook a comprehensive review of the full spectrum of India-Germany bilateral relations, including trade and investment, defence and security, technology, green and sustainable development, mobility, and people to people exchanges," the release read. "They agreed to further deepen and diversify cooperation in areas of contemporary relevance, including critical and emerging technologies, defence, industrial collaboration, digital governance, renewable energy, green hydrogen, innovation, and development cooperation in third countries. The two sides also exchanged views on key regional and global developments including the situation in West Asia and the Russia-Ukraine conflict," it added. As part of the visit, the Foreign Secretary interacted with foreign policy experts, members of parliament, and senior officials from Germany's federal and state governments at the Korber Foundation. The Ministry of External Affairs noted that the consultations were held in a cordial and friendly atmosphere and followed the recent visit of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to India in January 2026, which added momentum to bilateral ties. During the visit, Misri also met with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul. The visit is expected to further advance ongoing cooperation and pave the way for substantive outcomes at the next India-Germany Inter-Governmental Consultations later this year. Foreign Secretary Misri also extended an invitation to State Secretary von Geyr to visit India at a mutually convenient time. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
15 April,2026 02:03 PM IST | Berlin (Germany) | ANIPrince Harry and his wife Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, arrived in Melbourne on Tuesday for their first Australian visit since their official royal tour in 2018. The lower-key four-day Australian visit comes after the couple announced in 2020 they planned to “step back” as senior royals and to become financially independent in their Californian base. The couple described their visit as privately funded. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever
15 April,2026 11:02 AM IST | Melbourne | AgenciesADVERTISEMENT
-1776262123971_d.png "Trump-Xi talks to focus on Iran and regional tensions. File Pic")
-1776255331843_d.png "Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal. File pic")
-1776247460640_d.png "Saudi Arabia’s FM Al-Jadaan (C) with Pakistan’s Muhammad Aurangzeb (L) and Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan, Ahmad (R), prior to their meeting in Washington. PIC/AFP")
-1776242165764_d.png "Damage at the site of an Israeli airstrike in the southern Lebanese village of Abbasiyeh. Pic/AFP")
-1776241742920_d.png "Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri interacts with think-tanks and foreign policy community in Germany. PIC/X")
