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World News / International

Iran restores tight control over Strait of Hormuz, blames US blockade

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Iran restores tight

Tehran: Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of Iran has announced that control over the Strait of Hormuz has returned to its previous status following continued US restrictions on Iranian ports.

According to a report by Al Jazeera, the IRGC stated that no changes have been made to the Strait’s operational status, emphasizing that it is now fully under the strict control of Iran’s armed forces.

In an official statement, the IRGC criticized the United States, accusing it of engaging in “maritime piracy” under the guise of enforcing a blockade.

 The statement further asserted that the Strait of Hormuz remains under tight surveillance and control by Iranian forces.

An IRGC commander warned that stringent monitoring of the waterway will continue until the United States restores complete freedom of navigation for vessels in the region.

Iranian authorities also said that security and oversight of regional sea routes have been further intensified to prevent any illegal activities.

The move is being viewed as a reassertion of Iran’s influence over one of the world’s most critical global trade corridors.

PSL 11 points table heats up after 26 matches as playoff race intensifies

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PSL 11 points

LAHORE: After 26 matches in Pakistan Super League Season 11, the points table presents a highly competitive picture with the race for playoffs entering a next phase.

Unbeaten Peshawar Zalmi have become the first team to qualify for the playoffs, securing 13 points from seven matches.

At the bottom, Rawalpindiz have been eliminated from playoff contention after losing all six of their matches.

Six teams remain in contention for the remaining three playoff spots. Islamabad United sit second on the table with nine points from seven matches, while Multan Sultans are third with eight points from six games, making both sides strong contenders.

Quetta Gladiators, Hyderabad Kingsmen, and Karachi Kings occupy the fourth, fifth, and sixth positions respectively, each with six points.

Defending champions Lahore Qalandars are placed seventh with just four points from six matches and face an uphill task, needing to win their remaining four games to stay in contention.

After suffering three consecutive defeats, Lahore Qalandars are set to face Rawalpindi in a crucial encounter today.

The playoff stage of the tournament is scheduled to begin on April 28, with the remaining 14 league matches expected to further intensify the competition.

Moeen Ali explains why he chose PSL over IPL

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Moeen Ali

English all-rounder Moeen Ali has explained his decision to prioritise the Pakistan Super League over the Indian Premier League, saying limited opportunities in the previous season influenced his choice.

In an interview, the England all-rounder said that during his last stint with Kolkata Knight Riders, he only played half the matches and received very few chances to bat. “At this stage, I want to play more cricket and maintain my form,” he said.

Moeen Ali added that at the age of 38, he is still motivated to perform and extend his career by staying active on the field. He said regular game time is crucial for his rhythm and consistency.

Now representing Karachi Kings, Moeen said joining Karachi was a major turning point in his decision-making. He also noted that the shorter format and schedule of the PSL suits both him and his family better.

The English all-rounder further revealed that he had always wanted to play in the PSL, but scheduling conflicts between major leagues often force foreign players to choose one tournament. This time, he said, he deliberately opted for the PSL to ensure more playing opportunities and better continuity.

US President Trump hints at ‘surprise’ on Iran deal

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US President

US President Donald Trump has said there is “good news” regarding Iran and hinted that “something surprising” could happen soon, according to international news agencies.

Speaking to reporters, Trump stated that if no agreement is reached, US restrictions on Iranian ports will remain in place. “Something is going to happen tomorrow, I think it will be a very positive development. There may be a surprise,” he remarked.

According to Reuters, the US President also said that a “very important and intelligent personality” is scheduled to visit the White House, adding that a major press conference will be held the following morning. He clarified that while the event is not directly related, it will likely include questions on the matter.

Trump further claimed that the US blockade in the Strait of Hormuz is continuing successfully, and said that several issues with Iran have already been agreed upon, while Iranian leadership is presenting a different narrative for domestic audiences.

He reiterated that Iran will not be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons, stating that negotiations are ongoing through his representatives, while the final decision rests with him.

The US President also suggested that if a deal is reached, nuclear material could be transferred from Iran to the United States. Otherwise, he warned of stronger measures to secure nuclear-related materials. He added that a ceasefire extension may not be continued, but sanctions and restrictions would remain in place.

Trump also commented on regional affairs, saying the United States would help stabilize Lebanon, which has faced prolonged instability. He acknowledged differences with Israeli leadership but described Benjamin Netanyahu as a reliable partner.

Meanwhile, Iranian officials have announced that the Strait of Hormuz has been reopened for commercial shipping, though they linked its continued openness to a ceasefire agreement, warning it could be closed again if terms are violated.

US–Iran talks continue on 3-page plan to end conflict

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US–Iran talks

WASHINGTON/TEHRAN: Negotiations between the United States and Iran are underway on a three-page framework aimed at ending the conflict, with a key proposal involving the release of frozen Iranian funds in exchange for nuclear concessions.

According to Axios, one of the central proposals under discussion suggests that the U.S. could release up to 20 billion dollars of Iran’s frozen assets if Tehran agrees to give up its stockpile of enriched uranium.

The report states that a major priority for Washington is to prevent Iran from accessing nearly 2,000 kilograms of enriched uranium stored in underground nuclear facilities, including around 450 kilograms enriched up to 60 percent.

Sources said that earlier in the talks, the U.S. had shown willingness to release 6 billion dollars to allow Iran to purchase food, medicine, and essential goods, while Iran had demanded up to 27 billion dollars. The latest discussions are reportedly centered around a compromise figure of 20 billion dollars.

A U.S. official described the proposal as part of ongoing negotiations, while another termed the “money-for-uranium” idea as just one of several options on the table.

During the talks, the U.S. has also called for Iran to transfer its nuclear material out of the country, whereas Tehran has agreed only to “downblend” the uranium within its own territory. Another option under consideration is transferring highly enriched uranium to a third country while reducing the rest under international supervision inside Iran.

The draft memorandum also includes a proposed voluntary restriction on Iran’s uranium enrichment. While the U.S. has reportedly pushed for a 20-year ban, Iran has suggested a five-year limit, with mediators working to bridge the gap.

Under the proposed framework, Iran would be allowed to maintain nuclear research reactors for medical purposes, but would commit to keeping all facilities above ground, with existing underground sites rendered inactive.

The Strait of Hormuz is also part of the discussions, though significant differences remain unresolved. It is unclear whether the agreement will address Iran’s ballistic missile program or its support for allied groups in the region.

Iran reopens Strait of Hormuz, Trump thanks Tehran as oil prices fall

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Iran reopens

TEHRAN: Iran has announced the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for commercial vessels following a ceasefire in Lebanon, allowing maritime trade to resume through one of the world’s most critical shipping routes.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said in a post on social media platform X that the strait has been fully reopened for all commercial shipping and will remain operational during the remaining period of the ceasefire.

He added that vessels will pass through designated maritime corridors managed by Iran’s Ports and Maritime Organization to ensure coordinated and regulated navigation.

According to the Iranian foreign minister, the move is aimed at easing regional tensions and supporting the restoration of global trade flows.

The Strait of Hormuz is a vital energy corridor through which a significant share of the world’s oil shipments passes, making it highly sensitive for global markets.

Following the announcement, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed gratitude to Iran, posting “Thank you Iran” on social media in response to the reopening of the strategic waterway.

Meanwhile, global oil prices declined sharply after the development. U.S. crude oil fell by around 8 percent to 86 dollars per barrel, while Brent crude dropped by 6 percent to 93 dollars per barrel as concerns over supply disruptions eased.

Market analysts say the reopening has reduced geopolitical risk premiums, leading to a broad decline in energy prices worldwide.

Shahid Afridi offers support to ailing ex-Afghan cricketer Shapoor Zadran

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Shahid Afridi

KARACHI: Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has expressed deep concern over the health of former Afghan fast bowler Shapoor Zadran and offered his full support.

According to reports, the 38-year-old ex-cricketer is in critical condition and has been admitted to the intensive care unit due to a serious medical complication.

His family has also shared updates on social media, requesting fans to pray for his recovery.

Reacting to the news, Afridi said he spoke with Zadran’s brother and was saddened to hear about his condition. In a message shared on social media platform X, he wrote, “You have always been a fighter on the field, and I am confident you will fight this battle with the same spirit. Praying for your speedy recovery.”

Afridi further assured support, stating that both he and Pakistan stand with Zadran during this difficult time, adding that he is available for any kind of assistance if needed.

It is worth mentioning that Zadran represented Afghanistan in 44 One Day Internationals, taking 43 wickets, and claimed 37 wickets in 36 T20 Internationals. He also had a brief but impactful presence in franchise cricket before announcing his retirement in 2025.

Quetta Gladiators beat Lahore Qalandars by 6 wickets in PSL 11 clash

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Quetta Gladiators

KARACHI: Quetta Gladiators secured a comfortable six-wicket victory over Lahore Qalandars in a match of Pakistan Super League Season 11.

Batting first after winning the toss, Lahore Qalandars were bowled out for 134 runs in 19.5 overs. Haseebullah Khan top-scored with 33 runs, while Usama Mir added 22. Fakhar Zaman made 20, Abdullah Shafique scored 17, and Sikandar Raza contributed 15 runs.

For Quetta Gladiators, Jahandad Khan and Usman Tariq picked up three wickets each.

In reply, Quetta Gladiators chased down the 135-run target comfortably in the 17th over, losing four wickets. Rilee Rossouw remained unbeaten on 60, while Hasan Nawaz scored 49.

On the points table, Quetta Gladiators now sit in fourth place with 6 points from 7 matches, while Lahore Qalandars are seventh with 4 points from 6 games.

Europe faces jet fuel crunch as Middle East disruption threatens flight operations

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Europe faces

Europe could face a major aviation crisis as jet fuel reserves are projected to last only six weeks, raising concerns that flight cancellations may soon begin.

According to British media reports, Fatih Birol warned that disruptions caused by tensions around the Strait of Hormuz are driving up global prices of petrol, gas, and electricity.

He noted that countries heavily dependent on Middle Eastern fuel supplies including Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, China, Japan, and South Korea are being affected first, with the impact expected to spread to Europe and the United States.

Fatih Birol cautioned that unless Europe secures at least half of its fuel imports from alternative sources, reserves could fall to critically low levels by June, potentially forcing airlines to cancel flights.

The Gulf region remains the largest supplier of jet fuel globally, while major refining hubs in countries such as South Korea, India, and China also rely heavily on crude oil from the Middle East. This dependency has disrupted the global jet fuel supply chain amid the ongoing crisis.

The report added that European markets will need to intensify efforts to secure alternative supplies to maintain adequate reserves during the peak summer travel season. Even if Gulf supplies resume soon, shortages could still emerge ahead of the high-demand period

Salman Agha advocates gradual path for PSL performers

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Salman Agha

KARACHI: Salman Ali Agha, captain of Karachi Kings and Pakistan’s T20 side, has said that performances in the Pakistan Super League alone should not be the sole basis for immediate selection into international cricket.

Speaking after Karachi Kings’ eight-wicket loss to Islamabad United in PSL 11, Agha admitted that his team failed to deliver across all departments.

“We did not play good cricket today. We will try to perform better in upcoming matches and make a comeback,” he said during the post-match press conference.

Reflecting on his own form, Agha said he has been getting starts but has struggled to convert them into big scores. “Once a player gets set, he should go on to make a big total.

 When the top order performs, it benefits the team. Today’s pitch was around a 170-run surface, but we couldn’t reach that mark,” he added.

Karachi Kings had posted 150 for 6 in their 20 overs, but Islamabad United chased down the 151-run target comfortably in 16 overs, losing just two wickets.

The skipper also expressed concern over his recent performances, noting that both his World Cup outing and current PSL season have not gone as expected. He hinted that he may consider taking a break from T20 cricket closer to the 2027 ODI World Cup if required.

Agha further emphasized the need for player development, stating that PSL performances are important for recognition but players should continue to refine their skills in domestic cricket before being fast-tracked to the international level.

He concluded by acknowledging the role of fans in enhancing the appeal of any tournament, adding that improved performances are essential to regain stronger public support.