May
⌨
The day was defined by Trump's rejection of Iran's latest negotiation proposal, delivered via Pakistan. In the morning, Iran submitted a new offer through Pakistani mediation, with state-aligned outlets like Borna and Tasnim highlighting the initiative. By afternoon, Trump publicly stated he was not satisfied with the proposal and reiterated his 'deal or bombing' ultimatum, casting doubt on a diplomatic resolution. Exile media focused on the economic toll: oil exports halved to 500,000 bpd, food inflation at 115%, and the internet blackout reaching 1,500 cumulative hours. The Pentagon awarded a $100 million contract for AI mine-clearing in the Strait of Hormuz, while Iran's UN envoy demanded compensation from Gulf states for complicity in the US-Israeli aggression. Hezbollah conducted its highest number of operations since the ceasefire, and Israel deployed a laser air defense system in the UAE.
⌨
The day was defined by the 64th day of Iran's near-total internet blackout and the execution of two prisoners for alleged Mossad espionage, reported by multiple exile outlets. State-aligned Tasnim highlighted Hezbollah's first use of Scud missiles and the judiciary chief's criticism of human rights advocates' silence over the Minab teachers' massacre. BBC Persian noted IRGC warnings of renewed US conflict and NATO's cooperation with the US over troop reduction in Germany. By evening, Le Monde reported Gulf states are deeply divided over continuing the war with Iran, while the US approved over $8 billion in emergency weapons sales to Middle East allies.
⌨
The day was dominated by Iran's 14-point response to the US 9-point proposal, delivered via Pakistan, aiming for a permanent end to war. State-aligned outlets highlighted the diplomatic initiative, while exile media reported the execution of 2022 protester Mahrab Abdollahzadeh and a record dollar rate of 190,000 tomans. Trump preemptively rejected the proposal, saying it was unacceptable. By evening, Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Baghaei announced the US had responded to Iran's proposal and Iran was reviewing it. The IRGC warned Trump to choose between 'impossible operation or bad deal'. Meanwhile, the Strait of Hormuz remained a focal point, with Iran announcing a 12-point plan for its management and a Nobel laureate warning that closure would zero global economic growth.
⌨
The day began with the execution of three Mashhad protesters, reported by exile outlets, while state-aligned media focused on Iran's readiness in the Strait of Hormuz. By late morning, Tasnim claimed initial shots were fired at US vessels, but CENTCOM denied any hits. In the early afternoon, CENTCOM announced two US-flagged commercial ships successfully transited the strait under escort, with Iran's IRGC denying any passage. The major escalation came in the late afternoon: Iran launched a drone and missile attack on oil facilities in Fujairah, UAE, causing a fire. CENTCOM responded by destroying six Iranian boats. Trump warned Iran against nuclear weapons and threatened retaliation. State-aligned Tasnim warned the UAE against retaliation, while exile outlets highlighted the attack and US threats. The Strait of Hormuz transit and Fujairah attack dominated the day, with the executions receiving less editorial priority.
⌨
The day was dominated by Trump's ultimatum for Iran to surrender, with the Strait of Hormuz crisis escalating. In the morning, state-aligned outlets reported Qalibaf's claim of a 'new equation' in the strait, while exile media highlighted South Korea considering joining 'Project Freedom'. By early afternoon, US Defense Secretary Hegseth claimed a ceasefire holds, but Iran's parliament speaker accused the US of endangering shipping. In the evening, Trump demanded Iran raise a white flag, and IRGC warned vessels to follow Iran's safe corridor. Exile outlets reported US warnings to Iran before 'Project Freedom' and concerns over female political prisoners. State-aligned Tasnim focused on Pakistan's claim of progress in Iran-US talks and Iran's denial of new attacks on UAE.
⌨
The day began with Trump's halt of 'Project Freedom' in the Strait of Hormuz, framed by state-aligned outlets as a US retreat and by exile media as a temporary pause tied to negotiations. By mid-morning, multiple sources reported that the US and Iran were nearing a one-page framework agreement to end the war and reopen the strait. Trump issued an ultimatum: accept the deal or face intensified bombing. Iran's foreign minister visited China, praising Beijing's stance. In the afternoon, Iran's UN mission demanded an end to the war, while CENTCOM disabled an Iranian oil tanker in the Sea of Oman. Netanyahu stated the key goal is removing all enriched material from Iran. The day closed with Trump saying a deal is 'very likely'.
⌨
The day began with Pakistan signaling Tehran's reply to the US proposal is near, and President Pezeshkian's account of a meeting with Mojtaba Khamenei. By late afternoon, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait briefly lifted restrictions on US military access, then reinstated them, while Iran's foreign minister denounced a US-Bahrain UN resolution on the Strait of Hormuz as provocative. The CIA contradicted Trump's optimism about a naval blockade, saying Iran could withstand a maritime siege for months. In the evening, reports emerged of an exchange of fire between Iranian forces and an 'enemy' near Qeshm and the Strait of Hormuz, with Tasnim claiming the enemy fled after sustaining damage. Iran created a new body to control the strait. Trump warned of intensified bombing if no deal, while state-aligned outlets dismissed US reports of talks as fake news.
⌨
The day began with reports of an exchange of fire in the Strait of Hormuz, with both Iran and the US claiming defensive actions. By mid-morning, editors focused on the Strait's revenue and opposition to its closure. In the afternoon, the US stopped two Iranian-flagged tankers, and Secretary Rubio warned Iran would be destroyed if it threatened America. Clashes paused but could resume if the US troubles Iranian vessels. A potential oil spill near Kharg Island was reported. By evening, the US awaited Iran's response to a peace proposal, while Iran denied involvement in an attack on a Chinese ship. The digital blackout entered day 70.
⌨
The day opened with VOA Persian reporting the US removal of over 13 kg of enriched uranium from Venezuela, framed as a major victory. By mid-morning, the Strait of Hormuz blockade remained central, with CENTCOM releasing images of 'Project Freedom' operations diverting 58 ships linked to Iran. Reuters noted Washington and Tehran remain far from ending the war. In the afternoon, Tasnim highlighted Hezbollah's 20 operations against Israel in 22 hours. Evening reports revealed a secret Israeli base in western Iraq built to counter Iran, per the Wall Street Journal. The digital blackout entered its 11th week, with the communications ministry admitting economic shock. Bahrain announced the dismantling of an IRGC-linked network and arrest of 41 individuals.
⌨
The day's dominant story was Iran's response to Trump's one-page proposal, delivered via Pakistan mid-afternoon. BBC Persian, Tasnim, and Borna confirmed the reply was sent, described by Iran as 'realistic and positive.' Trump warned that Iran would no longer make the world wait and threatened two more weeks of strikes. Earlier, IRGC commander Abdollahi met Supreme Leader Khamenei, who issued new directives on military readiness. The Strait of Hormuz remained central: Iran deployed Ghadir submarines and 'dolphin' boats, while Tasnim warned France and UK against sending warships. CENTCOM reported 61 ships diverted by the naval blockade. The internet blackout entered day 72, with citizens describing being 'fallen from existence.' A bulk carrier was hit by an unknown projectile off Qatar, and Qatar and UAE countered Iranian drones.
⌨
The day's dominant story was Trump's rejection of Iran's response to his ceasefire proposal, delivered via Pakistan the previous day. Throughout the day, Trump escalated his rhetoric, calling the reply 'completely unacceptable,' then 'garbage,' and finally 'stupid.' Iran's spokesman countered that its demands were 'reasonable and legitimate,' while Tasnim described the proposal as 'generous.' By evening, Trump warned the truce was 'on life support' and that he was dealing with 'crazy' people. The diplomatic impasse drove oil prices up. Meanwhile, the execution of student Erfan Shokurzadeh on espionage charges was widely reported by VOA, Iran International, and Kayhan London. Iran threatened French and British warships in the Strait of Hormuz, raising oil prices further. Tasnim denied reports that Iran agreed to remove enriched uranium. Britain imposed new sanctions on 12 Iranian entities. Hezbollah claimed retaliatory strikes against Israeli forces.
⌨
The day's dominant story was Trump's nuclear ultimatum to Iran, delivered before his trip to China. Throughout the day, Trump warned that if Iran does not agree to a deal, 'we will finish the job' and 'they will be destroyed.' The Pentagon reported the war has cost $29 billion so far. The US also announced a $15 million bounty for information disrupting IRGC financial networks. Meanwhile, Kuwait arrested four alleged IRGC members, and Bahrain sentenced a woman to life for collaborating with Iran. Turkish FM Fidan visited Qatar, urging against using the Strait of Hormuz as a weapon. Iran's foreign ministry rejected threats, insisting real peace cannot be built on threats and humiliation. The internet blackout entered day 74, with judiciary calling for action against VPNs. 112 Nobel laureates demanded Narges Mohammadi's release.
⌨
The dominant story on May 13 was Netanyahu's secret wartime visit to Abu Dhabi, hosted by UAE's bin Zayed, reported by BBC Persian, Tasnim News, and Radio Farda as a 'historic breakthrough' in Israel-UAE ties. Earlier in the day, oil loading at Kharg Island reportedly halted, with VOA Persian and Radio Farda covering the 75-day internet blackout. Trump arrived in Beijing for talks expected to cover the Iran war and Taiwan arms sales. The execution of Ehsan Afrashte on espionage charges continued to feature, with VOA Persian, BBC Persian, and Kayhan London reporting. By evening, US Energy Secretary warned Iran is 'alarmingly close' to nuclear weapons, while Tasnim News English claimed Iran will block US arms in the Strait of Hormuz.
⌨
The day's dominant story was the US-China agreement on Iran, reached during Trump's Beijing meeting with Xi Jinping. The two leaders agreed that Iran must never acquire nuclear weapons and that the Strait of Hormuz must remain open. Trump stated Xi offered to help reopen the strait and assured no Chinese military aid to Iran. Iran's FM Araqchi insisted the strait is open for commercial ships but requires coordination with Iran. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia proposed a non-aggression pact with Iran. Six Arab countries filed a complaint at the UN Security Council demanding compensation from Iran. Iran's FM warned the UAE that its alliance with Israel is unforgivable and will not bring security.
⌨
The day's dominant story was Trump's conditional agreement to a 20-year suspension of Iran's nuclear program, provided Tehran shows 'real commitment.' This emerged after his return from Beijing, where he and Xi agreed on keeping the Strait of Hormuz open and preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Iran's FM Araqchi acknowledged receiving new US messages indicating willingness to negotiate, but noted talks have hit a dead end over enriched uranium. Meanwhile, the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire was extended by 45 days, seen as a defeat for Iran's efforts to undermine talks. Hezbollah claimed a drone attack on an Israeli military post. BRICS foreign ministers failed to issue a joint statement, with Iran and Russia emphasizing BRICS' role in Persian Gulf security. Iran International reported a 50 million euro bounty for killing Trump, and the UAE accelerated a pipeline project to bypass the Strait of Hormuz.
⌨
The day's dominant story was the arrest and transfer to the US of a senior Kata'ib Hezbollah commander, accused of plotting attacks against Jews from London to Los Angeles. This was covered by VOA Persian, BBC Persian, Iran International, and Kayhan London, with some sources linking the arrest to the ongoing war with Iran. In parallel, US and Israeli preparations for potential strikes against Iran continued, with VOA Persian citing the New York Times. Trump claimed Iran has come close to a deal five times, while Radio Farda reported on possible resumption of war. Diplomatic efforts included a Putin-UAE president call and Pakistan's interior minister's unannounced visit to Tehran. Tasnim News claimed Trump returned from China empty-handed.
⌨
The day's dominant story was a drone attack near the UAE's Barakah nuclear power plant, condemned by Abu Dhabi as a 'terrorist' act. This coincided with Trump's ultimatum that Iran must act quickly or 'nothing will remain.' Iranian military officials continued threatening 'crushing blows' against US aggression. Meanwhile, Qalibaf was appointed as Iran's special representative for China affairs, and the internet blackout entered its 79th day. Hezbollah claimed 19 operations against Israeli positions, and Israel warned residents of four southern Lebanese villages to evacuate. The US did not extend the Russia oil sanctions waiver.
⌨
The morning was dominated by President Trump's ultimatum that "nothing will remain" of Iran without a rapid agreement, followed by reports of a US-China pact to prevent Iranian tolls in the Strait of Hormuz. By midday, editorial focus shifted to diplomatic technicalities as Iran submitted a 14-point proposal via Pakistani mediators, while simultaneously reaffirming that uranium enrichment remains a non-negotiable red line.
As the afternoon progressed, reports emerged that Washington viewed the new text as insufficient, with some outlets citing US officials warning that negotiations might shift to "bombing" if diplomacy failed. However, the day concluded with a sudden reversal: Trump announced he would postpone a planned Tuesday military strike on Iran, citing direct requests for restraint from leaders in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar. This pivot overshadowed the killing of an Islamic Jihad commander in Lebanon and the 80th day of Iran's internal internet blackout.
As the afternoon progressed, reports emerged that Washington viewed the new text as insufficient, with some outlets citing US officials warning that negotiations might shift to "bombing" if diplomacy failed. However, the day concluded with a sudden reversal: Trump announced he would postpone a planned Tuesday military strike on Iran, citing direct requests for restraint from leaders in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar. This pivot overshadowed the killing of an Islamic Jihad commander in Lebanon and the 80th day of Iran's internal internet blackout.
⌨
The day began with the reopening of the Tehran Stock Exchange after 80 days, though 42 symbols remained closed. Trump's claim that he postponed a strike at Arab leaders' request was countered by his own renewed threat of a 'major military strike' if no deal is reached. The G7 called for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, while Qatar said talks need more time. The US sanctioned 51 entities linked to Iran's financing and offered a $15 million reward for information on IRGC financial networks. The internet blackout entered its 81st day. Domestic prices surged, with chicken rising 70,000 tomans per kilo in a week. Iran's army warned of opening new fronts if attacked, and state media highlighted the Supreme Leader's message on population growth as key to Iran's power.
⌨
The morning began with a dual-track escalation: Iranian Foreign Minister Araqchi and the IRGC warned of "surprises" and a war expanding beyond the region, while state media prioritized the second anniversary of President Raisi’s death. Concurrently, a New York Times report regarding an Israeli-US attempt on Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s home was circulated by editors to emphasize external threats of regime change.
By midday, Speaker Qalibaf warned that the U.S. was preparing for a "new round of war," a sentiment reinforced by President Trump, who shifted from claiming "no hurry" to declaring negotiations were in their "final stages." Trump issued a specific ultimatum: a deal must be signed, or the U.S. would "finish the job."
The evening saw direct military friction as CENTCOM confirmed boarding and diverting an Iranian-flagged tanker in the Gulf. Despite this physical escalation, reports emerged of a new U.S. text sent to Tehran via Pakistani mediators, with Trump indicating he would wait a few days for a response to avoid casualties.
By midday, Speaker Qalibaf warned that the U.S. was preparing for a "new round of war," a sentiment reinforced by President Trump, who shifted from claiming "no hurry" to declaring negotiations were in their "final stages." Trump issued a specific ultimatum: a deal must be signed, or the U.S. would "finish the job."
The evening saw direct military friction as CENTCOM confirmed boarding and diverting an Iranian-flagged tanker in the Gulf. Despite this physical escalation, reports emerged of a new U.S. text sent to Tehran via Pakistani mediators, with Trump indicating he would wait a few days for a response to avoid casualties.
⌨
The day opened with optimism over a US-Iran deal, but shifted to confrontation over the Strait of Hormuz. In the morning, Pakistan's army chief arrived in Tehran to mediate, while Iran executed two Kurdish prisoners. By midday, US Secretary of State Rubio declared Iran's toll system in the Strait unacceptable, and Trump threatened to seize and destroy Iran's uranium stockpile. CENTCOM reported diverting 94 vessels during the blockade. Iran's president emphasized support for the armed forces, and the IRGC claimed 31 ships passed through the Strait under its coordination. The evening saw Trump repost an article about defeating Iran's regime and a poll showing two-thirds of US voters consider America the winner of the war with Iran.
⌨
The day was dominated by Pakistan's intensified mediation between Iran and the US. In the morning, Pakistan's interior minister met Iran's foreign minister for the second time in two days. By early afternoon, the army chief, General Asim Munir, was reported en route to Tehran, arriving in the late afternoon. A Qatari delegation was also present. US Secretary of State Rubio expressed optimism but noted differences remained. The internet blackout entered its 84th day, with reports of deep social divides. The IRGC Navy oversaw passage of 35 vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. The Wall Street Journal alleged Babak Zanjani's network moved $850 million for the IRGC via Binance.
⌨
The day opened with reports of US military preparations for new strikes, including canceled leaves and Trump's claim that Iran's military is destroyed. Pakistan's army chief and a Qatari delegation continued mediation in Tehran. By midday, Iran's spokesman said a memorandum of understanding was being finalized, while Rubio warned Iran not to hold energy hostage. In the evening, Trump declared Iran and the US are 'very close' to a deal, but also threatened unprecedented strikes if no agreement is reached. The internet blackout exceeded 2000 hours, and economists warned of 40 million Iranians in poverty.
⌨
The day opened with US Secretary of State Rubio hinting at imminent good news on a deal, but by evening Trump told his representatives not to rush, saying he won't sign a bad deal and sanctions will continue. State-aligned Tasnim News insisted no agreement without unfreezing Iran's assets, while Iran International reported Iran rejects giving up enriched uranium. The IRGC warned of a 'hellish' response to any new aggression. Citizens expressed anger and dissatisfaction with the potential deal. The internet blackout continued for 86 days.
⌨
The day opened with US Secretary of State Rubio saying a deal with Iran could be reached Monday, while Iran's spokesman downplayed imminent agreement, saying talks focus on ending the war. By midday, Parliament Speaker Qalibaf and Foreign Minister Araqchi made an unannounced visit to Qatar, joined by the central bank chief to discuss unfreezing assets. State-aligned Tasnim framed the trip as a sign of progress, while exile outlets reported the execution of protester Abbas Akbari Feyzabadi. In the evening, Trump linked any deal to immediate expansion of the Abraham Accords, demanding Saudi Arabia and Qatar join. Iran's security chief declared there would be no retreat. Multiple sources reported the government ordered reopening of international internet after nearly three months of disruption.
⌨
The day's dominant editorial focus was the partial restoration of internet access after 88 days of near-total blackout. Morning headlines reported the government's order to reopen, but by midday the judiciary and Administrative Court had suspended the mandate, creating confusion. By afternoon, NetBlocks confirmed connectivity at 34%, and state-aligned outlets framed it as a phased, regulated return. Exile media highlighted the chaotic implementation and the regime's internal power struggle.
Concurrently, military tensions persisted: CENTCOM confirmed defensive strikes on Iranian missile sites and IRGC boats in the south, while the IRGC claimed to have downed a US drone. Trump's ultimatum that Iran's enriched uranium be destroyed abroad was widely covered, alongside Qalibaf's Doha visit to unfreeze $12 billion in assets. The Supreme Leader's Hajj message, declaring the US has no regional place and Zionism's end is near, was amplified by state media but overshadowed by the internet story.
Concurrently, military tensions persisted: CENTCOM confirmed defensive strikes on Iranian missile sites and IRGC boats in the south, while the IRGC claimed to have downed a US drone. Trump's ultimatum that Iran's enriched uranium be destroyed abroad was widely covered, alongside Qalibaf's Doha visit to unfreeze $12 billion in assets. The Supreme Leader's Hajj message, declaring the US has no regional place and Zionism's end is near, was amplified by state media but overshadowed by the internet story.
⌨
The day's editorial focus shifted from the internet's partial return to Trump's nuclear ultimatum. Morning coverage highlighted the fragile internet restoration and diplomatic fallout from US strikes near Bandar Abbas, which Tehran called a ceasefire violation. By afternoon, Trump dominated headlines: he stated he would not lift sanctions in exchange for enriched uranium, expressed dissatisfaction with talks, and warned of returning to 'finish the job' if no excellent deal is reached. The White House dismissed a leaked memorandum as fake. State-aligned Tasnim acknowledged remaining disagreements in message exchanges. Exile media reported South Korea summoning Iran's envoy over a ship attack and US missile defense expansion. The day closed with Trump's hardline stance overshadowing other stories, including Israel's strikes on Hezbollah and Pakistan's pledge to stand with Iran.
⌨
The day was dominated by a sharp military escalation in the Persian Gulf and a simultaneous diplomatic opening. Overnight, CENTCOM struck a drone launch site near Bandar Abbas and downed four Iranian drones; the IRGC retaliated by targeting a US airbase. Kuwait activated air defenses and demanded an immediate halt to Iranian attacks. By morning, the US sanctioned Iran's 'Persian Gulf Waterway Management Entity.'
In the afternoon, attention shifted to diplomacy: Axios reported a preliminary US-Iran understanding awaiting Trump's decision, and VOA confirmed Treasury Secretary Bessent's pursuit of a 'great deal.' The US also moved to restrict Iranian airlines' access to airports and fuel. State-aligned media amplified the Supreme Leader's message to parliament, warning against internal division and emphasizing unity. The juxtaposition of battlefield clashes and backchannel deal-making defined the editorial agenda.
In the afternoon, attention shifted to diplomacy: Axios reported a preliminary US-Iran understanding awaiting Trump's decision, and VOA confirmed Treasury Secretary Bessent's pursuit of a 'great deal.' The US also moved to restrict Iranian airlines' access to airports and fuel. State-aligned media amplified the Supreme Leader's message to parliament, warning against internal division and emphasizing unity. The juxtaposition of battlefield clashes and backchannel deal-making defined the editorial agenda.
⌨
The day's editorial focus narrowed to Trump's announcement that he would make a final decision on Iran in the Situation Room. Morning coverage had been fragmented: conflicting signals on a deal's proximity, Pezeshkian thanking Pakistan for mediation, and a drone incident near Bushehr denied by CENTCOM. By afternoon, Trump's ultimatum—no nuclear weapons, open Strait of Hormuz, removal of enriched uranium—dominated all outlets. Iranian officials repeatedly denied any finalized understanding, while exile media highlighted US sanctions and the ECB's war-risk warning. The Situation Room meeting became the prism through which all other developments were refracted, from Qalibaf's three-point message to the friendly football match against Gambia.
⌨
The day opened with US Defense Secretary Hegseth reiterating military readiness against Iran and Trump demanding a deal meeting his red lines. By mid-morning, Iran downed an Orbiter drone over Qeshm Island, a story state media framed as a defensive success while exile outlets tied it to Hegseth's threats. The editorial focus shifted sharply in the afternoon when Oman warned of a suspected naval mine in the Strait of Hormuz, a development that dominated headlines across all sources. State-aligned media emphasized parliament's push for a strait management law, while foreign-based Persian outlets highlighted Trump's inconclusive meeting and US warnings against sanctions evasion. The mine warning, combined with Hezbollah's rocket attacks on northern Israel and reports of a US interception of a ship bound for Iran, crystallized the day's narrative around the militarization of the strait and the fragility of diplomatic efforts.
⌨
The day’s editorial focus shifted from military escalation to parliamentary veto power. Morning reports detailed the IRGC’s downing of a US MQ-1 drone and CENTCOM’s Hellfire strike on a vessel bound for Iran, continuing the Strait of Hormuz tensions. By midday, Parliament Speaker Qalibaf’s statement that no agreement would be approved until Iran’s rights were secured dominated all outlets. State-aligned media framed this as a rejection of enemy promises, while foreign-based sources linked it to Trump’s toughened nuclear terms sent to Tehran. Afternoon coverage split: state media highlighted Hezbollah’s drone strikes on Beit Hillel and Haifa, while exile outlets reported Pezeshkian’s alleged resignation due to IRGC dominance—a claim state sources dismissed as fabrication. The day ended with Foreign Minister Araghchi confirming ongoing message exchanges to end the war, but Qalibaf’s veto set the editorial tone.
Israel
China
Finland
France
Germany
India
Italy
Japan
Kenya
Lebanon
Netherlands
Palestine
Poland
Russia
Spain
Turkey
UK
US
Ukraine