US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has issued a stark ultimatum to Tehran regarding its nuclear stockpile, asserting that Iran must surrender its enriched uranium or Washington will "take it out." His remarks came while briefing journalists at the White House after the US and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire, marking a significant pause in the intense military hostilities between the two nations. Evaluating the shifting political climate in Tehran, Hegseth observed that the "new Iranian regime" has a different interaction with America than before, implying a transformation in the nature of engagement under the current circumstances. Regarding the sustainability of the truce, the Secretary of War expressed a cautious optimism. Hegseth said he hopes and believes the ceasefire will hold, serving as a necessary window for further diplomatic developments. He further highlighted the immediate economic impact of the agreement, reinforcing that the Strait of Hormuz is now open and commerce will flow, ensuring the unhindered movement of global trade through the vital waterway. In alignment with this stance, United States President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced that Washington intends to demand a total cessation of uranium enrichment in Iran, while simultaneously initiating discussions regarding sanctions relief and tariff reductions. The President characterised the recently brokered ceasefire as the start of a "very productive regime change" for the Islamic Republic. In a statement shared via his Truth Social platform, Trump maintained that the United States is prepared to "work closely with Iran" following the recent hostilities. He further suggested that the foundations for a more comprehensive international settlement have effectively been established. Addressing the nuclear issue directly, Trump specified the administration's primary objectives. "There will be no enrichment of uranium, and the United States will, working with Iran, dig up and remove all of the deeply buried nuclear 'dust'," he asserted, in an apparent reference to the remains of the nation's nuclear framework. The President emphasised that Iranian facilities are currently under "exacting satellite surveillance" to ensure compliance. He noted that "nothing has been touched from the date of attack", indicating that the US is maintaining a vigilant watch over the integrity of these sites. This strategic pivot follows a high-stakes ceasefire reached late Tuesday, which was secured less than two hours before a final ultimatum issued by the US President. Under the current terms, the US and Israel have agreed to suspend the "bombing Iran for a period of two weeks", provided that Tehran ensures the "reopening of the Strait of Hormuz" to guarantee "safe passage" for global maritime traffic. The resolution followed a period of extreme tension on Tuesday morning, during which Trump warned that "a whole civilisation will die tonight, never to be brought back again" if his demands were ignored. He had advocated for a "complete and total regime change, where different, smarter, and less radicalised minds prevail," suggesting such a shift could lead to "something revolutionarily wonderful". Confirming the halt in military operations, Trump described the arrangement as a "double sided CEASEFIRE" He argued that the US had "already met and exceeded all Military objectives" and is now "very far along with a definitive Agreement concerning Long-term PEACE with Iran, and PEACE in the Middle East." The President further acknowledged Iran's 10-point proposal as a "workable basis on which to negotiate," noting that "almost all of the various points of past contention have been agreed to." In response, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi ratified Tehran's commitment to the truce. He stated that Iran would facilitate "safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz" during the designated 14-day period, managed through close "coordination with Iran's armed forces." While the ceasefire has taken effect on the Iranian front, regional complexities remain. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu endorsed the pause regarding Iran but clarified that the suspension of hostilities would not apply to military operations in Lebanon.
08 April,2026 08:07 PM IST | Washington, DC | ANIKyiv on Wednesday called on the United States to pressure Russia into ending its invasion of Ukraine, saying Washington's ceasefire agreement with Iran showed the success of US "decisiveness." The war in the Middle East suspended US-led efforts to end the four-year Ukraine war. The Kremlin also said it now hoped a new round of talks with US and Ukrainian delegations would be possible after Tehran and Washington agreed a two-week ceasefire. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga wrote on social media: "American decisiveness works. We believe it is time for sufficient decisiveness to force Moscow to cease fire and end its war against Ukraine." President Volodymyr Zelensky echoed those comments in a later post on social media. "Ukraine has always called for a ceasefire in the war waged by Russia here in Europe against our state and our people, and we support the ceasefire in the Middle East and the Gulf that paves the way for diplomatic efforts," he wrote. In Moscow, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters: "We hope that in the foreseeable future they will have more time and more opportunities to meet in a trilateral format. We look forward to this". Several rounds of US-led talks have failed to bring the warring sides closer towards an agreement. Moscow is demanding sweeping territorial and political concessions from Kyiv that Zelensky has ruled out as tantamount to capitulation. US Vice President JD Vance said Wednesday that the Ukraine war was proving "the hardest" to solve. Speaking during a visit to Budapest, he said Washington would "keep on working" to find a solution and insisted there had been "significant progress." He also slammed European leaders, saying "they don't seem particularly interested in solving this particular conflict." Ukraine urges energy ceasefire Zelensky added that Ukrainian military teams helping Middle East countries counter Iranian drone attacks would stay in the region. Kyiv says it has deployed more than 200 military personnel with expertise in downing drones to the region since Iran began retaliatory drone attacks across the Middle East in response to US and Israeli attacks. "Ukrainian expert military teams will continue to work in the region to help further develop security capabilities," Zelensky wrote on social media. "The situation in this region has global implications -- any threats to security and stability in the Middle East and the Gulf amplify challenges for the economy and the cost of living in every country," he added. He reiterated readiness to pause strikes on Russian infrastructure if Moscow halted its long-range drone and missile attacks on Ukrainian power plants and grid. "Ukraine tells Russia once again: we are ready to respond in kind if the Russians stop their strikes. It is obvious to everyone that a ceasefire can create the right preconditions for agreements," Zelensky wrote. The Russian invasion of Ukraine launched in February 2022 has cost hundreds of thousands of lives and displaced millions, making it the deadliest conflict in Europe since World War II. 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.
08 April,2026 04:59 PM IST | Kyiv, Ukraine | AFPThe Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Wednesday welcomed the recent ceasefire between the United States and Iran, expressing hope that it would lead to lasting peace in West Asia. In an official statement, the ministry stressed the importance of de-escalation, dialogue and diplomacy to end the ongoing conflict. The MEA noted that the conflict had caused significant suffering and disrupted global energy supplies and trade networks. In an official statement, posted on X, MEA emphasised the need to ensure uninterrupted navigation and smooth flow of commerce through the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route. Statement on the recent development in West Asia ⬇️🔗 https://t.co/WwFCi4kXHg pic.twitter.com/wmsF4YUb7j — Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) April 8, 2026 Trump announces ceasefire Earlier, US President Donald Trump announced a two-week suspension of military strikes on Iran, describing it as a “double-sided ceasefire”. He said the decision was based on progress in negotiations and a proposal put forward by Iran that could lead to a long-term agreement. Pakistan’s role in mediation Trump said the decision followed discussions with Shehbaz Sharif and Asim Munir, who urged a pause in military action, the ANI reported. The ceasefire is also linked to Iran ensuring safe and open passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran responds Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that Iran would halt its military operations if attacks against it stopped. He added that safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz would be allowed for two weeks in coordination with the country’s armed forces. Further negotiations are expected to take place in Islamabad, with the Iranian delegation led by Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and the US side led by Vice-President JD Vance. The talks aim to reach a long-term agreement and reduce tensions in the region. Israel to continue attacks in Lebanon Israel has supported US President Donald Trump’s decision to suspend military strikes against Iran for two weeks, according to a statement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, reported the PTI. The pause is conditional on Iran opening the Strait of Hormuz and stopping attacks on the United States, Israel and other countries in the region. The statement said Israel supports US efforts to ensure that Iran no longer poses a nuclear, missile or terror threat to the region and beyond. It added that the United States has reaffirmed its commitment to these goals during upcoming negotiations. Lebanon not included in ceasefire However, Israel made it clear that the ceasefire does not apply to its operations in Lebanon, according to the PTI. The government said military action against Hezbollah will continue, particularly in southern Lebanon and other strongholds, to prevent attacks on northern Israel. The two-week ceasefire was proposed by Pakistan and accepted by both sides. Iran’s Supreme National Security Council confirmed it would enter negotiations with the US in Islamabad to resolve ongoing tensions. (with ANI and PTI inputs)
08 April,2026 02:24 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentGreece will ban access to social media for children under 15 from January 1, 2027 Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said on Wednesday. "We have decided to go ahead with a difficult but necessary measure: ban access to social media for children under 15 years old," he said in a video posted on TikTok. 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.
08 April,2026 02:15 PM IST | Athens, Greece | AFPINS Trikand, a frontline warship of the Indian Navy, arrived at Mombasa on Tuesday, April 7, for joint engagements with Kenya, an official statement said. The visit is part of its ongoing deployment in the South West Indian Ocean Region and aims to enhance cooperation between India and Kenya. The port call coincides with the visit of Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command, to Kenya. His visit highlights the growing strategic and defence ties between the two nations. Planned engagements and cooperation During the stay, the ship’s crew will take part in professional, cultural and social engagements with local authorities and the Kenya Defence Forces, the statement issued by Defence PRO said. Essential stores brought from India will also be handed over as part of cooperation efforts. The Commanding Officer of INS Trikand is scheduled to meet senior government officials in Kenya, further strengthening bilateral relations, it said. Joint naval exercise planned After departing from Mombasa, INS Trikand will take part in a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with units of the Kenya Navy. The exercise will help improve coordination, share best practices and enhance maritime interoperability between the two navies. The visit is in line with India’s MAHASAGAR vision—Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions—focused on promoting regional security and cooperation. INS Trikand at Dar es Salaam INS Trikand had last week arrived at Dar es Salaam on April 3, 2026, an official statement had earlier said. The visit was part of its ongoing deployment in the South West Indian Ocean Region and aims to strengthen maritime cooperation between India and Tanzania, it had said. During the port call, the crew was scheduled to take part in professional exchanges and joint training activities with the Tanzania Navy. These exercises are aimed at improving interoperability and enhancing coordination between the two naval forces, the statement had said. A series of social and community engagements are also planned, including friendly sports matches and yoga sessions. INS Trikand at Seychelles Last month, INS Trikand had successfully completed an engaging and productive port call. During the visit, Captain Sachin Kulkarni called on senior government officials of Seychelles, as well as the High Commissioner of India to the island nation. The ship also handed over critical spares and essential stores to the Government of Seychelles as part of ongoing cooperation. The port call, which began on March 16, concluded on March 20 and featured a range of operational and collaborative engagements between the two countries. INS Trikand also participated in the first tri-services edition of Exercise Lamitiye 2026, alongside personnel from the Indian Army, Indian Air Force and the Seychelles Defence Forces (SDF). This marked the maiden participation of the Indian Navy in the exercise.
08 April,2026 02:13 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentIsrael has supported US President Donald Trump’s decision to suspend military strikes against Iran for two weeks, according to a statement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, reported the PTI. The pause is conditional on Iran opening the Strait of Hormuz and stopping attacks on the United States, Israel and other countries in the region. The statement said Israel supports US efforts to ensure that Iran no longer poses a nuclear, missile or terror threat to the region and beyond. It added that the United States has reaffirmed its commitment to these goals during upcoming negotiations. Lebanon not included in ceasefire However, Israel made it clear that the ceasefire does not apply to its operations in Lebanon, according to the PTI. The government said military action against Hezbollah will continue, particularly in southern Lebanon and other strongholds, to prevent attacks on northern Israel. The two-week ceasefire was proposed by Pakistan and accepted by both sides. Iran’s Supreme National Security Council confirmed it would enter negotiations with the US in Islamabad to resolve ongoing tensions. Trump announces pause Trump announced the suspension of strikes, stating that it would depend on Iran ensuring the safe and immediate opening of the Strait of Hormuz. He described the move as a temporary and conditional ceasefire. Iran’s response Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran would halt defensive operations if attacks stopped, as per the PTI. He also confirmed that safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz would be allowed during the ceasefire period, in coordination with Iran’s military. The conflict between the US and Iran escalated earlier this year over Tehran’s nuclear programme, leading to heightened tensions across the West Asian region. The ceasefire Trump pulled back on his threats to launch devastating strikes on Iran late Tuesday, as the US and Iran agreed to a two-week ceasefire that includes the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump swerved to de-escalate the war less than two hours before the deadline he set for Tehran to capitulate to a deal or face attacks on its bridges and power plants meant to destroy the Iranian civilisation. Trump made the dramatic announcement on Truth Social on Tuesday evening (US time) even as Democrats called for his removal over unhinged threats to wipe out the Iranian civilisation. (with PTI inputs)
08 April,2026 01:50 PM IST | Jerusalem | mid-day online correspondentThe Artemis II mission is more than just a test flight it is a major step towards returning humans to the Moon. For the first time in decades, astronauts will travel around the Moon aboard the powerful Orion spacecraft, launched by the Space Launch System. This roughly 10-day journey tested systems in deep space and prepared for future missions that aim to land humans on the lunar surface again. But beyond the technology, what truly makes this mission special is the crew four individuals bringing skill, courage and strong will to this historic journey. Reid Wiseman: The quiet power of a single father Commander Reid Wiseman is no stranger to space. A U.S. Navy veteran and engineer, previously spent 165 days aboard the International Space Station, conducting hundreds of experiments and even performing spacewalks. But beyond his impressive career, Wiseman’s personal life tells a story of resilience. A single father of two after his wife Carrol passed away due to Cancer in 2020, he considers raising his children especially through challenging times as his greatest achievement. Away from the spotlight, Wiseman is someone who leans on learning and reflection. He is known to turn to books and expert insights when faced with challenges, maintaining a mindset focused on growth and adaptability. Victor Glover: Breaking barriers and reaching new heights Pilot Victor Glover has already made history as part of a previous SpaceX mission to the International Space Station. A naval aviator and test pilot, he has flown advanced fighter jets and served in both combat and peace missions. The pilot balances the high-pressure world of spaceflight with his role as a devoted husband and father. Glover’s journey reflects determination and service. From being a student-athlete to a space explorer, he has always balanced excellence with community values. His role as pilot on Artemis II places him at the heart of navigating this complex mission. Christina Koch: Pushing limits and redefining possibilities Mission Specialist Christina Koch grew up in Michigan and North Carolina, spending summers on her family’s farm. Her upbringing instilled a strong work ethic and a passion for challenges, which carried her through record-breaking spaceflights, including the longest single spaceflight by a woman, 328 days and the first all-female spacewalk Raised with a love for the outdoors and challenges, Koch’s personality shines through her adventurous spirit. Whether it’s climbing, surfing or exploring space, she thrives in demanding environments. Her journey represents how persistence and passion can redefine what’s possible. Jeremy Hansen: Grounded in family, Canadian roots and love for sleep Mission Specialist Jeremy Hansen represents the Canadian Space Agency, making Artemis II a truly international mission. Raised on a farm in Canada, Hansen’s path to space was shaped by curiosity and discipline. A military officer and space science graduate, he balances his professional life with a strong family connection. Known for his humility and humour, he jokes in an interview that his “superpower” is sleeping—a skill his wife will happily confirm. Hansen often credits his family’s support as his strength something he carries with him into space. "I am pretty lucky in this job that I have the support of this family," says the only Canadian crew member. More than astronauts: A team that represents humanity In a touching tribute during their historic journey, the crew named a lunar crater after Commander Reid Wiseman’s late wife, Carroll, and also designated another crater “Integrity” to reflect the spirit of their spacecraft. "It's a bright spot on the Moon. And we would like to call it Carroll," Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen told a live broadcast. Together, these four astronauts reflect a blend of experience, diversity, and shared purpose. They will launch from Kennedy Space Center, travel beyond Earth’s orbit, and return after testing critical systems for future lunar mission. Their journey includes high-speed reentry into Earth’s atmosphere and a splashdown in the Pacific Ocean bringing them back home after pushing the boundaries of exploration. As the crew prepared to leave Earth behind, they remind us that space exploration is not just about rockets and technology or just about its 4 member crew—it’s about families ready to support, people willing to take risks, explore the unknown and expand what humanity can achieve together.
08 April,2026 12:46 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentUS President Donald Trump in a social media post declared the ceasefire agreement a "big day for World Peace" and that the US "will be helping with the traffic buildup in the Strait of Hormuz." "There will be lots of positive action!" Trump predicted in his post. "Big money will be made. Iran can start the reconstruction process. We'll be loading up with supplies of all kinds, and just hangin' around' in order to make sure that everything goes well. I feel confident that it will." Trump's message on his Truth Social website signals Washington's concern about Iran maintaining its chokehold over the narrow mouth of the Persian Gulf, through which 20 percent of all oil and natural gas passes in peacetime. 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.
08 April,2026 12:38 PM IST | Washington | APUS Ambassador to New Delhi, Sergio Gor, has said that he has discussed with President Donald Trump ways to build a "strong future" for India and the US. Gor met Trump over dinner on Tuesday. His meeting with President Trump coincided with the US and Iran agreeing to a two-week ceasefire following nearly six weeks of military hostilities. Gor also mentioned Trump's unwavering determination to bring global stability."Just had an outstanding dinner with President Trump. We discussed his unwavering determination to bring global stability, the historic achievements of his presidency, the strong future of India-US ties, and so much more! A very memorable evening as history unfolded in real time," Gor posted on X on Wednesday. The dinner comes as Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri reached Washington DC on Wednesday to review bilateral trade and defence ties, and discuss the escalating crisis in West Asia. The visit comes as both sides work to stabilise the ties after a spell of uncertainty and strain. The relations witnessed a major downturn after Washington imposed punitive tariffs on India, and President Donald Trump made controversial assertions regarding his role in de-escalating the India-Pakistan military clashes last May. Meanwhile, US envoy Gor earlier met US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick here and discussed the commercial roadmap for the two countries and the opening up of a market of 1.4 billion people for American products. Gor said he discussed with Lutnick a new Memorandum of Understanding that seeks to connect India's AI scale with the American AI ecosystem, and also strong participation from New Delhi in the upcoming SelectUSA Summit near here. 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.
08 April,2026 12:27 PM IST | Washington | PTISeoul said North Korea has fired an additional ballistic missile toward its eastern waters. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff gave no further details about Wednesday's launch. But it came after South Korea detected several ballistic missile launches by North Korea earlier Wednesday. 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.
08 April,2026 12:01 PM IST | Seoul | APAfter announcing a two-week ceasefire with Iran, US President Donald Trump on Wednesday said that it was a "big day for World Peace". He said that Iran wanted this to happen as "they have had enough", while adding that Tehran can start the reconstruction. In a statement shared on Truth Social, Trump stated that the US will be helping the traffic buildup in the Strait of Hormuz and mentioned that American troops will "hang around" to ensure everything "goes well", reported IANS. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated, "A big day for World Peace! Iran wants it to happen, they’ve had enough! Likewise, so has everyone else! The United States of America will be helping with the traffic buildup in the Strait of Hormuz. There will be lots of positive action! Big money will be made. Iran can start the reconstruction process. We’ll be loading up with supplies of all kinds, and just 'hangin' around' in order to make sure that everything goes well. I feel confident that it will. Just like we are experiencing in the US, this could be the Golden Age of the Middle East!" According too IANS, Trump stepped back from the brink of a major military escalation with Iran, announcing a conditional two-week pause in planned attacks tied to reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a development that came as a big relief to people across the world. The decision came 90 minutes before the self-imposed 8 p.m. EST deadline set by Trump for Iran to reach a deal, after backchannel diplomacy. Trump offers two-week pause in attacks if Iran reopens Hormuz, cites progress toward peace Reported by IANS, Trump, in a post on Truth Social on Tuesday (local time), said he would “suspend” an escalation of attacks for two weeks if Iran agrees to open the key shipping route. In a social media post, he said talks with Pakistan led to what he called a “double-sided ceasefire.” “The reason for doing so is that we have already met and exceeded all Military objectives, and are very far along with a definitive Agreement concerning long-term peace with Iran, and peace in the Middle East,” Trump wrote. He added that the United States had received “a 10-point proposal from Iran” that was “a workable basis on which to negotiate.” Trump said “almost all of the various points of past contention” had been agreed, and the two-week pause would allow the agreement “to be finalised and consummated.” The ceasefire is conditional. Trump said it depends on Iran agreeing to the “complete, immediate, and safe opening of the Strait of Hormuz.” Iran signals conditional pause as Israel also backs two-week halt in attacks Iran signalled tentative acceptance. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said Tehran would halt operations if attacks stop. “If attacks against Iran are halted, our Powerful Armed Forces will cease their defensive operations,” he said, reported IANS. “For a period of two weeks, safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz will be possible via coordination with Iran’s Armed Forces and with due consideration of technical limitations,” he added. A White House official said Israel had also agreed to the two-week pause, though details remain unclear, reported IANS. The pause followed a sharp escalation earlier in the day. Trump warned that “a whole civilisation will die tonight, never to be brought back again” if Iran did not reach a deal. The Strait of Hormuz remains central to the crisis. Its closure has disrupted oil supplies and pushed up prices, reported IANS. (Inputs from IANS)
08 April,2026 11:25 AM IST | Washington | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
-1775658845085_d.png?tr=w-436,h-271 "US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. File Pic")
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