Browsing: War and Conflict

The United States and Iran have reached a two-week ceasefire agreement, announced shortly before a military escalation deadline set by President Trump. The accord includes reopening the Strait of Hormuz, allowing tolls on transiting vessels, with further negotiations expected in Pakistan on Friday.

The European Union has urged US President Donald Trump to avoid bombing civilian infrastructure in Iran, warning it could be classified as a war crime. The EU emphasised the need for “maximum restraint” and diplomacy to achieve a peaceful resolution amid rising tensions related to the Strait of Hormuz.

Claims suggest Italy denied US military aircraft access to the Sigonella base in Sicily due to political reasons tied to the Iran war. However, official statements and reports clarify that the issue is primarily procedural, rather than politically motivated.

Iran has permitted the departure of French nationals Cécile Kohler and Jacques Paris after three and a half years of detention. President Emmanuel Macron confirmed their release while emphasising no agreement for a prisoner swap was reached, amid ongoing tensions in the region.

Jet fuel prices have surged by 95% since the United States and Israel initiated military attacks on Iran on 28 February. Energy analysts predict that higher fares, fuel surcharges, and capacity reductions will soon become standard as airlines adjust to escalating costs.

Croatia’s Adriatic coast leads summer 2026 hotel bookings in Europe, with 34 million nights reserved from June to September 2025. Its blend of natural beauty, cultural vitality, and attractions like Split and Dubrovnik draws tourists, edging out traditional favourites like Spain and France in popularity.

The US and Israel intensified military actions against Iran following President Trump’s ultimatum to “completely obliterate” Iranian energy sites unless the Strait of Hormuz reopens to international shipping. Meanwhile, Lebanon’s Justice Minister described the escalating Israeli ground incursions as an “occupation,” amid a worsening humanitarian crisis.

Bulgarian writer Irina Papancheva’s latest work, Brussels Naked, explores the unpredictable nature of Brussels through the eyes of a young journalist. The novel features twelve interconnected stories, revealing varied experiences within the EU’s capital, showcasing both its enchantment and cruelties.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy cautioned that the protracted conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran might divert Washington’s focus from Ukraine, jeopardising essential supplies of Patriot air defence systems. Zelenskyy stressed Ukraine’s urgent need for these systems to counter Russia’s ongoing attacks on urban centres and infrastructure.

Lebanon’s Justice Minister Adel Nassar has urged the international community to condemn Israel’s occupation of Lebanese territory, amid escalating tensions following Israeli military operations. Nassar described the situation as “dramatic”, calling for urgent diplomatic efforts to protect Lebanon’s sovereignty and civilian population from further conflict.