The Sindh government has approved a major expansion of its social protection programmes, introducing new cash assistance schemes for children and rural women while upgrading maternal health support across the province. Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah chaired the third board meeting of the Sindh Social Protection Authority in Karachi on Tuesday. Senior ministers, officials and board members attended the meeting, including Provincial Minister Saeed Ghani, Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah and SSPA CEO Irshad Sodhar. The board approved a new Early Childhood Development programme targeting 885,000 children aged up to five years. It also cleared seasonal cash transfers for women agricultural workers and introduced reforms to the Mamta maternal health support programme. New welfare measures approved The new Early Childhood Development initiative carries a budget of Rs14 billion and receives funding support from German development bank KfW. Under the programme, eligible caregivers will receive Rs3,000 every quarter for child growth monitoring, nutrition counselling and school readiness support. Officials said the initiative aims to improve nutrition and long term human development outcomes among vulnerable families. The board also approved a Women Agricultural Workers Programme. The scheme will provide monthly financial support to rural women during lean farming periods lasting between two and four months each year. Authorities expect the programme to help women cope with seasonal income losses, reduce debt burdens and improve food security in rural households. The board also reviewed the progress of the Mamta programme, which currently operates in 22 districts with a budget of Rs56 billion. More than one million women and children have registered under the initiative so far. To improve payment reliability, the board approved a Hybrid Predictable Payment Model. Under the revised system, mothers will continue receiving scheduled payments even if a health visit faces slight delays. In another measure, authorities approved full cash support for a mother’s pregnancy or youngest child. Families will also receive 75 percent of the conditional transfer amount for an older child under the age of two. Focus on maternal health and poverty relief The Sindh government also plans to expand the Mamta programme into underserved urban areas. The board approved a feasibility study with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to explore expansion into high risk union councils in Karachi and Hyderabad. Officials also ratified an addendum allowing Health Department facilities in seven new districts to join the programme. District Headquarters and Tehsil Headquarters hospitals will serve as central Mamta desks. To strengthen oversight, the board authorised specialised committees covering audit, legal affairs, research and human resources. It also approved a Rs2.29 billion budget for the 2026-27 financial year. Murad Ali Shah said the provincial government wants to create a stable support system for Sindh’s poorest communities. “Our goal is to create a predictable and reliable safety net that empowers the most vulnerable women and children of Sindh,” he said. “By integrating health, nutrition and financial stability, we are investing in the future of our province.” The chief minister described social protection as both a welfare duty and an investment in human capital. “Protecting mothers, supporting young children and assisting rural women during difficult seasons means strengthening families and building a healthier, more resilient Sindh,” he added. The latest measures come as Pakistan continues to face inflation pressures, climate related economic shocks and growing concerns over food insecurity in vulnerable regions.
Iran and US Close to Gulf War Agreement, Report Says
The United States and Iran are moving closer to a possible agreement aimed at ending the conflict in the Gulf, according to sources familiar with the talks. The proposed deal could ease tensions around the Strait of Hormuz after weeks of military escalation and disruptions to global energy supplies. A source confirmed that a report by Axios on a one page memorandum between Washington and Tehran was accurate. “We will close this very soon. We are getting close,” the source said. Read More: US pauses ‘Project Freedom’ amid breakthrough talks with Iran The development came shortly after US President Donald Trump paused “Project Freedom,” a naval mission launched to escort commercial ships through the blocked strait. Trump said negotiations with Iran had shown “great progress.” “We have mutually agreed that, while the Blockade will remain in full force and effect, Project Freedom (The Movement of Ships through the Strait of Hormuz) will be paused for a short period of time to see whether or not the Agreement can be finalised and signed,” Trump wrote on social media. 14-point memorandum under negotiation According to Axios, the proposed memorandum contains 14 points and could formally end the war while launching a 30 day negotiation period for a broader agreement. The talks reportedly involve US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner alongside Iranian officials, both directly and through mediators. Pakistan has played a central mediation role throughout the crisis. Last month, it hosted the only peace talks between the two sides and continues to relay proposals between Washington and Tehran. The proposed framework includes a temporary halt to Iran’s nuclear enrichment activities. In return, the United States would gradually lift sanctions and release billions of dollars in frozen Iranian funds. Both countries would also begin removing restrictions around shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Read More: Oil Falls as US Moves to Free Stranded Ships in Strait of Hormuz The White House and Iran’s foreign ministry have not officially commented on the details. However, CNBC quoted an Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson as saying Tehran was evaluating the 14 point US proposal. Oil prices tumble as markets react Financial markets reacted quickly to the reports. Brent crude futures dropped more than eight percent and fell near the $100 per barrel mark. Global stock markets also climbed as investors anticipated a possible end to the conflict. The Strait of Hormuz has remained largely shut since the United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran on February 28. Iran later restricted most commercial shipping through the route, while Washington imposed a blockade on Iranian ports in April. Trump’s naval escort mission struggled to restore confidence among shipping companies. At the same time, Iran intensified attacks on vessels and targets near the Gulf. Read More: New Passport Design in US to Include Trump Picture A French shipping company reported Wednesday that one of its container ships had been struck in the strait a day earlier. The company confirmed that authorities evacuated injured crew members. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, speaking during a visit to China, did not directly address Trump’s announcement. However, he said Tehran continued to seek “a fair and comprehensive agreement.” Despite the optimism, uncertainty remains high. One US official told Axios that Washington could restore the blockade or resume military operations if negotiations collapse.
Apple to pay $250M after claims it misled millions over Siri AI
companies Apple has agreed to pay $250 million to resolve a class action lawsuit that accused the tech giant of misleading millions of iPhone buyers over the capabilities of its Siri voice assistant. The settlement, filed on Tuesday and pending court approval, follows claims that Apple exaggerated artificial intelligence features tied to Siri in late 2024. Plaintiffs argued that the company “promoted AI capabilities that did not exist at the time, do not exist now, and will not exist for two or more years” in order to drive iPhone sales. The case covers around 36 million eligible devices sold in the United States between June 10, 2024 and March 29, 2025. These include the iPhone 16 lineup, along with the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max models. Each eligible customer may receive up to $25 per device, though the final payout could reach $95 depending on how many claims are approved. Advertising claims and regulatory scrutiny The dispute centered on Apple’s push to position Siri as a next generation AI assistant during its 2024 marketing campaign. The company highlighted advanced features tied to on device intelligence and conversational capabilities, which many users expected to be immediately available. However, the Better Business Bureau’s National Advertising Division later found that Apple had overstated the readiness of those features. The watchdog concluded that the company falsely suggested the new AI powered Siri was “available now.” The lawsuit also cited consumer surveys, including one by Morgan Stanley, which showed that “enhanced Siri” ranked as the most anticipated feature among potential iPhone buyers. This heightened expectations and amplified backlash when Apple delayed the rollout. Apple later confirmed that key Siri upgrades would be postponed indefinitely and removed related advertisements. Industry analysts said the delay reflected broader challenges in scaling generative AI reliably across consumer devices, especially with privacy focused architectures. Settlement without admission of wrongdoing Apple denied any wrongdoing but agreed to settle the case to avoid prolonged litigation. “We resolved this matter to stay focused on what we do best: delivering the most innovative products and services to our users,” the company said in a statement to the Financial Times. The settlement must receive approval from Judge Noel Wise of the Northern District of California. The court has scheduled a hearing for June 17, 2026. Legal experts say the case highlights rising scrutiny around how technology companies market artificial intelligence features. Regulators in the United States and Europe have increasingly warned firms against overstating capabilities, especially in a rapidly evolving AI landscape. For Apple, the case comes at a time when competition in AI driven smartphones continues to intensify. Rivals have accelerated their own generative AI integrations, putting pressure on the company to deliver on its promises while maintaining its privacy focused approach. The outcome of the settlement could also influence how companies advertise future AI features, as they face growing legal and regulatory risks tied to consumer expectations.
Twins born minutes apart discover they have different fathers
In a rare medical case, twin sisters in the United Kingdom have discovered in their late 40s that they do not share the same father, shedding light on a phenomenon documented only a handful of times worldwide. Michelle and Lavinia Osbourne, both 49, were born minutes apart in Nottingham in 1976. Decades later, at home DNA tests revealed that while they share the same mother, they are biologically half sisters. The condition is known as heteropaternal superfecundation, where two eggs released in the same cycle are fertilised by sperm from different men. Fewer than two dozen such cases have been recorded globally, and experts believe this may be the only documented instance in the United Kingdom, according to reports by the BBC. A rare condition with emotional impact Medical literature describes heteropaternal superfecundation as extremely uncommon but scientifically recognised. It can occur when a woman ovulates more than once within a short period and has relations with different partners during that time. Read More: Man Wins $1 Million Picasso With Just a €100 Ticket For Lavinia, the discovery brought both clarity and emotional strain. “Maybe subconsciously I knew,” she said, recalling a long standing feeling that something was different. Reflecting on their bond, she added, “She was the one thing that belonged to me, and then she wasn’t.” Michelle reacted differently. “I wasn’t surprised. It’s super weird, super odd, super rare but it makes sense,” she said. The sisters grew up in difficult conditions, moving between carers as their mother struggled to provide stability. Through those years, they relied heavily on each other, strengthening a bond that remained intact despite the revelation. Search for identity and family answers Questions about their father had lingered since childhood. Their mother had named a man called James as their father, but he remained largely absent. Years later, Michelle began to question that claim after noticing no physical resemblance. A DNA test confirmed that James was not her biological father. Further research led Michelle to a man named Alex, whom she later met. She recognised similarities but said the meeting did not develop into a lasting relationship. Lavinia initially resisted testing but eventually agreed. Her results showed that Alex was not her father either, confirming that the sisters had different biological fathers. Michelle later traced her own father to a man named Arthur. The sisters met him in London, leading to a turning point in their lives. Lavinia said she formed a meaningful connection with him and now meets him regularly, describing it as a sense of belonging she had long missed. Arthur welcomed both sisters and told Michelle she could consider him a father figure, offering emotional closure after years of uncertainty. Their mother died on the same day Michelle received her DNA results, leaving several questions unanswered. Arthur later said she had approached him during a difficult time in her life. Experts say such cases highlight the growing role of consumer DNA testing in uncovering complex family histories. As testing becomes more accessible, more families may discover unexpected genetic links that were once impossible to trace.
Pakistani Cadet Wins Top Military Honour: Named Best Foreign Trainee in Australia
A Pakistani Army cadet has secured top honours at one of Australia’s most prestigious military institutions, underscoring long standing defence ties between the two countries. Cadet Sardar Arsam Abbas of the Pakistan Military Academy 152 Long Course was named the “Overall Best Foreign Military Cadet” at the Royal Military College Duntroon during a passing out parade held in Canberra on May 5, 2026, according to the Inter Services Public Relations. The award recognises the highest performing international cadet across all aspects of training, including leadership, academics and physical performance. ISPR described the achievement as “a testament to the highest standards of professionalism, commitment and excellence demonstrated by the junior leadership of the Pakistan Army.” Ceremony highlights and international recognition The commissioning parade took place at Royal Military College Duntroon, widely regarded as the training ground for Australia’s future Army officers. The event was reviewed by Simon Stuart, Chief of Army, and attended by members of the diplomatic corps, Australian Defence Force officials and families of graduating cadets. Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Australia also attended the ceremony, reflecting the significance of the honour for bilateral relations. Military analysts say awards at RMC Duntroon carry considerable prestige due to the academy’s rigorous standards and international intake. ISPR noted that the recognition highlights the strong performance of Pakistani cadets in foreign military training environments. The military’s media wing emphasised that such achievements reinforce Pakistan’s reputation for producing capable and disciplined officers. Legacy of excellence and enduring ties This marks the 14th time a Pakistani cadet has received the Overall Best Foreign Military Cadet award at the academy. The distinction places Cadet Abbas among a select group of officers who have excelled in international training programmes. ISPR also recalled Lieutenant Nasir Hussain Khalid Selhria Shaheed, Tamgha e Basalat, who previously earned the same honour. He later embraced shahadat on September 4, 2020 in North Waziristan District. The military said his name remains inscribed on the memorial stone at the RMC parade ground, symbolising “the enduring legacy of courage sacrifice and honour of brave Pakistani Army Officers.” Defence cooperation between Pakistan and Australia has continued to expand over the years. Since 2013, seven Pakistan Army officers have served as platoon commanders on the faculty at Duntroon. In addition, 46 Pakistani cadets have graduated from the academy since 2009. Read More: Pakistan Air Force Successfully Tests Indigenous Taimoor Air-Launched Cruise Missile Experts say such exchanges play a vital role in strengthening interoperability and professional ties between armed forces. They also provide exposure to global military standards and operational practices. The latest recognition comes at a time when international military collaboration remains key to addressing evolving security challenges. Analysts note that training exchanges help build mutual trust and enhance coordination among partner nations. For Pakistan, the award not only reflects individual excellence but also highlights the institutional strength of its military training system.
Govt cuts banks from E-bike scheme after 91% loan rejections
Pakistan’s ambitious push to promote electric mobility has hit a major roadblock after commercial banks approved only a fraction of applications under the subsidised electric bike scheme, forcing the government to overhaul its strategy. Officials told the Economic Coordination Committee that banks approved just 4,075 applications out of 44,689 received, roughly 9%, raising concerns about the viability of the programme. The government had aimed to distribute 116,000 electric bikes and rickshaws in the current fiscal year, but progress remains far behind schedule. Despite imposing a Rs2.5 per litre climate support levy on petrol and diesel consumers, the scheme has struggled to gain traction. The levy will double from July under commitments linked to the International Monetary Fund programme. Weak banking response slows rollout Data presented to the ECC revealed that banks processed only 22% of applications and approved less than half of those. Financing amounted to Rs143 million, a small fraction of the Rs9 billion allocated for the Pakistan Accelerated Vehicle Electrification programme. So far, only 5,409 electric bikes and rickshaws have been distributed, just 4.5% of the annual target. The first phase itself targeted 41,000 units, yet delivery remained limited. Applicants had two options. They could acquire a subsidised bike through bank financing with interest covered by the government, or opt for self-financing and claim a subsidy after purchase and verification. The contrast proved stark. Of 1,339 applicants who chose self-financing, 1,334 received bikes and 77% received subsidies directly. Officials concluded that “the poor bank response necessitated major policy changes.” Policy shift focuses on self-financing To address the slowdown, the ECC approved a shift toward self-financing models in the second phase. The government will reduce reliance on banks and allow buyers to pay the price minus subsidy directly to suppliers. A new option will enable applicants to receive vehicles without paying the full upfront cost. The government will cover the remaining amount in instalments. The committee also introduced a targeted scheme for government employees in BS-16 and below. Under this plan, buyers will pay Rs10,000 upfront for bikes and Rs100,000 for rickshaws or loaders, with manufacturers charging no interest. The Engineering Development Board will release subsidies within five working days. Authorities will process all applications on a first come, first served basis. Fleet operators will also join the second phase to scale up adoption. Officials acknowledged that delays in hiring third-party verification firms had “undermined public confidence in the government’s commitment.” Fast-track plan targets fuel savings In a parallel move, the government approved a fast-track rollout of 100,000 electric bikes within three months using existing CKD kits. This initiative will run alongside the original target. Manufacturers will receive a subsidy of Rs80,000 per bike under a transparent delivery-linked mechanism. Authorities expect this component to save 8.6 million litres of petrol, equal to about $8 million in three months and $222 million over five years. The ECC also approved a smaller incentive scheme for top-performing students across 26 Boards of Intermediate and Secondary Education, offering around 600 electric bikes. Pakistan launched the PAVE programme to reduce fuel imports and emissions, aligning with global trends toward electric mobility. However, weak financial sector participation has exposed structural challenges in execution.
No Insult to IRGC: Iran Sets Condition for World Cup Travel
Iran’s football chief Mehdi Taj has asked FIFA to ensure that no one insults the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps during the 2026 World Cup in the United States. His demand follows a recent diplomatic incident involving the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran delegation. Taj and his team turned back from the Canadian border last week while trying to attend the FIFA Congress in Vancouver. Read More: Players Risk Red Cards for Covering Mouths at FIFA World Cup Iranian officials said immigration authorities treated them disrespectfully. However, Canada later confirmed that officials cancelled Taj’s visa during his flight. Authorities cited his links to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which Canada listed as a terrorist entity in 2024. The United States had taken a similar step earlier. Iran seeks firm assurances FIFA Secretary-General Mattias Grafstrom expressed regret over the incident. He invited Iranian officials to Zurich on May 20 to discuss World Cup preparations. Still, Taj made it clear that Iran needs guarantees before traveling to the United States. “We need a guarantee there, for our trip, that they have no right to insult the symbols of our system especially the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps,” he said on state broadcaster IRIB. He stressed that FIFA must take responsibility. “This is something they must pay serious attention to. If there is such a guarantee and the responsibility is clearly assumed, then an incident like what happened in Canada will not happen again.” Read More: From $15 to $150: Train Fare Spike Hits FIFA World Cup Fans The 2026 World Cup will run from June 11 to July 19 across the United States, Canada and Mexico. Iran will play two group matches in Los Angeles and one in Seattle. Political tensions cloud preparations US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington has no issue with Iranian players joining the tournament. However, he added that authorities will deny entry to individuals linked to the IRGC. Taj warned that any lack of clarity could create problems again. “We are going to the World Cup, for which we qualified, and our host is FIFA not Mr Trump or America,” he said. He added that respect is essential for participation. “If they accept hosting us, then they must also accept that they must not insult our military institutions in any way.” Read More: FIFA Confirms Iran Will Play World Cup Matches in US Despite War Tensions He pointed to the risk of another standoff. “Because if they do, then naturally it could create the same kind of situation that happened in Canada, where there was a possibility we might have to return.” “So there must be this kind of guarantee so that we can go with peace of mind.” Tensions around Iran’s participation have increased since US and Israeli strikes earlier this year. Domestic football competitions remain suspended, forcing players to train in Tehran camps. Despite this, preparations continue. Taj said Iran hopes to arrange a friendly match with a strong team in Turkiye. The team recently played Nigeria and Costa Rica there in March. The situation highlights how political tensions could affect a major global sporting event.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Child Labour Row: FIR Threat Shakes IPL
A fresh controversy has erupted in the Indian Premier League (IPL) after a social activist threatened legal action against Rajasthan Royals for fielding teenage cricketer Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, calling his participation “child labour”. The issue surfaced when activist CM Shivakumar Nayak announced plans to file a police complaint, arguing that the 15-year-old’s involvement in professional cricket violates child rights laws. His remarks came during a televised debate on a Kannada news channel. Read More: IPL Built for Entertainment Not Development, Muttiah Muralithan “This 15-year-old boy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi from Rajasthan Royals is being exploited. He is just a child, only 15 years old, and they have brought him into the IPL to play professional cricket. This is nothing but child labour. How can they make a minor boy play in such a big league like this? He should be focusing on his studies, going to school and completing his education instead of playing cricket at this tender age,” Nayak said. Allegations trigger public backlash Nayak further warned that the situation could set a harmful precedent. “I strongly condemn this and I will be filing a police complaint or legal case against the Rajasthan Royals management for violating child rights and child labour laws. Don’t let this boy play IPL cricket, it’s child labour, he should study,” he added. However, his comments quickly sparked backlash online. Many users pointed to historical examples, particularly Sachin Tendulkar, who debuted internationally at 16 and went on to become one of the sport’s greatest players. Read More: Rajasthan Royals Sale Explained: How Shane Warne’s Family Will Earn Rs 450 Crore Critics also questioned the consistency of such claims. Several argued that young actors and reality show contestants do not face similar scrutiny. Others highlighted India’s structured youth cricket system, including Under-19 teams, which regularly groom teenage talent for elite competition. Social media reactions ranged from sarcastic to critical. One user joked that Nayak was acting as if Rajasthan Royals had “opened a factory instead of a cricket academy.” Another remarked that IPL teenagers “give bowling tuition” rather than doing homework, underscoring the competitive nature of modern cricket pathways. Record-breaking rise fuels debate Sooryavanshi’s rapid rise has added fuel to the debate. The youngster, who hails from Bihar’s Samastipur district, made headlines during the IPL 2025 auction. At just 13, he became the youngest player ever signed in league history after securing a 1.10 crore (indian rupees) deal with Rajasthan Royals. He later made his debut on April 19, 2025 against Lucknow Super Giants. At 14 years and 23 days, he became the youngest debutant in IPL history. The franchise retained him for the 2026 season. Under the updated BCCI match fee structure, he now earns 7.5 lakh per game, reflecting his growing value despite his age. Read More: BCCI Announces Record Rs131 Crore Prize for India’s T20 World Cup Champions Meanwhile, Rajasthan Royals continue to perform strongly in the current season. The team sits fourth on the IPL 2026 points table with six wins and four losses. It will face Gujarat Titans on May 9 in a crucial fixture. The controversy highlights a broader tension between early talent development and legal frameworks governing minors. While Indian cricket has long nurtured young prodigies, the latest episode raises questions about where to draw the line between opportunity and exploitation.
Usman Tariq lands Warwickshire deal after global T20 interest
Pakistan’s mystery spinner Usman Tariq has joined Warwickshire Bears for the upcoming Vitality T20 Blast, the club confirmed on Tuesday ahead of the May 22 start. The 30 year old had attracted strong interest from multiple franchise leagues worldwide. However, Warwickshire managed to secure his signature, highlighting his rising value in white ball cricket. Read More: Usman Tariq Hits Back with Confidence After Ashwin’s Remarks He will spend most of the English summer at Edgbaston Stadium. Subsequently, his Blast campaign will transition into a stint with Birmingham Phoenix in The Hundred. The franchise signed him for £140,000 during March’s draft. Tariq eyes strong start in England Reacting to the move, Tariq expressed excitement about joining the squad. “I am very excited to bring more fun and energy to the Bears. I can’t wait to get involved with the squad, and it’s a great feeling to be part of this team. I hope to see as many people as possible at Edgbaston this summer,” he said. Notably, his signing reflects a broader shift in English cricket. Teams are increasingly targeting mystery spinners who can adapt to fast paced T20 conditions. As a result, Tariq’s variations and control make him a valuable middle overs option. Worth the wait 🎰Full Story on Usman Tariq joining the Bears ✍️ https://t.co/qWY3J10nYQ🐻 #YouBears pic.twitter.com/MWJdf3wioc— Bears (@WarwickshireCCC) May 5, 2026 Moreover, the dual tournament arrangement offers continuity. Staying in Birmingham across both competitions should help him maintain rhythm during a demanding schedule. Warwickshire confident of impact Meanwhile, Performance Director James Thomas said the club had identified Tariq as a key target early in the process. “Usman is exactly the type of high-impact player we want to bring into Warwickshire, so we’re delighted to get this deal completed,” he said. Read More: ‘Crybaby’ Meme Sparks Buzz as Usman Tariq Hits Back at Cameron Green Furthermore, Thomas praised Tariq’s all round cricketing intelligence. “His skill set and tactical awareness make him a genuine threat in modern white-ball cricket, but it’s his hunger to compete and continually improve that really stands out.” In addition, he highlighted the strategic link between the Bears and Birmingham Phoenix. “What makes this signing particularly exciting is the alignment between Warwickshire and Birmingham Phoenix.” He then explained the broader benefits of the move. “It allows us to create continuity for the player, maximise performance impact across both competitions, and build stronger connections with our supporters.” Ultimately, the club sees the deal as part of a bigger plan. “Ultimately, this is about strengthening the team, the franchise, and our presence in the area, and we believe Usman can play a key role in that this summer.” The Vitality Blast remains one of the most competitive domestic T20 leagues globally. Therefore, strong performances there often open doors to major international opportunities. Tariq now enters the tournament with rising expectations and a clear platform to deliver.
US pauses ‘Project Freedom’ amid breakthrough talks with Iran
United States President Donald Trump said on Tuesday he would briefly pause a military-backed operation escorting commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz, citing “great progress” toward a comprehensive agreement with Iran. The move came hours after Secretary of State Marco Rubio detailed the effort, which began on Monday to guide stranded tankers out of the Gulf. The strait has remained largely shut since the conflict escalated, choking nearly 20 percent of global oil supplies and fueling a sharp energy crisis. Read More: Oil Falls as US Moves to Free Stranded Ships in Strait of Hormuz In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the decision followed requests from Pakistan and other countries. “Based on the request of Pakistan and other Countries, the tremendous Military Success that we have had during the Campaign against the Country of Iran and, additionally, the fact that Great Progress has been made toward a Complete and Final Agreement with Representatives of Iran, we have mutually agreed that, while the Blockade will remain in full force and effect, Project Freedom (The Movement of Ships through the Strait of Hormuz) will be paused for a short period of time to see whether or not the Agreement can be finalized and signed,” he wrote. pic.twitter.com/a1FIT7QKVw— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) May 5, 2026 There was no immediate response from Tehran, where officials have yet to publicly acknowledge the development. Oil markets react, uncertainty lingers Shortly after Trump’s remarks, US crude futures dropped by $2.30, slipping below the key $100 per barrel mark. Traders had closely watched this level since the conflict pushed energy prices sharply higher over the past two months. Read More: Spirit Airlines Prepares to Shut Down After Years of Losses The White House did not clarify what progress negotiators had achieved or how long the pause would last. Analysts say even a temporary halt signals easing tensions in a region that handles one of the world’s most critical oil routes. Iran has effectively sealed off the strait since the US and Israeli campaign began in late February. In response, Washington imposed a blockade on Iranian ports and launched escorted transits under what Trump dubbed “Project Freedom.” Iranian forces targeted some of these convoys, raising fears of renewed escalation. معادلهٔ جدید تنگهٔ هرمز در حال تثبیت است. امنیت کشتیرانی و ترانزیت انرژی به دست آمریکا و متحدانش با نقض آتشبس و اعمال محاصره به خطر افتاده است؛ البته شرّشان کم خواهد شد.خوب میدانیم که استمرار وضع موجود برای آمریکا غیر قابل تحمل است؛ درحالی که ما هنوز حتی شروع هم نکردهایم.— محمدباقر قالیباف | MB Ghalibaf (@mb_ghalibaf) May 5, 2026 Iran’s Revolutionary Guards navy warned it would deliver a “firm response” if vessels deviated from approved routes. Meanwhile, Tehran’s chief negotiator said talks “had not even started yet,” despite the reported progress. US declares military objectives achieved Rubio told reporters at the White House that Washington had met its core military goals. “Operation Epic Fury is concluded,” he said. “We’re not cheering for an additional situation to occur.” He stressed the mission was defensive. “This is not an offensive operation; this is a defensive operation,” Rubio said. “And what that means is very simple, there’s no shooting unless we’re shot at first.” Rubio added that Iran now faces “real, catastrophic destruction to their economy,” while reiterating that Trump prefers a negotiated settlement. Read More: New Passport Design in US to Include Trump Picture Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the US had secured a viable route through the waterway, with hundreds of commercial vessels waiting to transit. He noted the fragile ceasefire still holds. General Dan Caine said Iranian attacks remained below the threshold for resuming major combat operations. Asked what could break the truce, Trump replied, “They know what not to do.” One of Washington’s main objectives remains preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons, a claim Tehran denies. However, Iran has yet to surrender more than 900 pounds of highly enriched uranium, keeping tensions high.
