Iran US War News Live Updates: Washington looking for ‘concrete actions’ by new Iraqi PM, says US official
US President Donald Trump arrives for an event with small business leaders (Photo/AP)
Iran-US War LIVE: The United States is seeking “concrete actions” from Iraq’s next prime minister to curb pro-Iran militias before resuming financial shipments and security aid, news agency AFP reported, citing a senior US official. Iraq’s ruling coalition pitched Ali al-Zaidi’s name for the position, who also received a congratulatory call from US President Donald Trump. However, a senior US State Department official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said that Zaidi must address the “blurry line” between pro-Iran militias in the country and the state. The official said that resuming full support “would start with expelling terrorist militias from any state institution, cutting off their support from the Iraqi budget (and) denying salary payments to these militia fighters.”
‘No one can make us surrender,’ says Iranian President Pezeshkian: Reacting to US calls to make concessions in negotiations to end the war or face action, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said that nobody can make Tehran surrender, adding that Shia members “cannot be coerced by force”. Pezeshkian, in an X post, said he had spoken with the Iraqi prime minister and urged the US to withdraw military threats from the Middle East.
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US President Donald Trump has said that he would briefly pause the ‘Project Freedom’ — an effort to escort vessels through the Strait of Hormuz — citing “great progress” in talks and a comprehensive agreement with Iran. Previously, the US had said it would help guide the ships that had been stuck since the Strait of Hormuz was closed.
Tensions in the Persian Gulf have sharply escalated, with the world closely tracking a fast-moving crisis that could reshape global energy and security dynamics. On Tuesday, May 5, 2026, US President Donald Trump talked about Iran war and said Tehran is “trying to survive” and wants to “make a deal”. When asked about ceasefire violations, Trump said, “Iran knows what not to do”.
Ceasefire on the brink
The truce is under strain as both sides accuse each other of violations. US forces report destroying Iranian fast-attack boats and intercepting missiles and drones during escort operations, while Tehran alleges civilian risks.
Key updates:
- Naval clashes intensify across shipping lanes.
- Over 1,500 vessels and 22,000 mariners remain stranded.
- Global oil markets remain volatile amid disruption fears.
- With neither side backing down, this is no longer just a regional flashpoint—it’s a high-stakes test of how far brinkmanship can go before spiralling into wider conflict.
Stay with The Indian Express Global Desk for real-time updates, geolocated footage of the crash sites, and live reactions from the Pentagon and Tehran.
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