Middle East crisis live: Iran to hand over enriched uranium or US will ‘take it out’, Hegseth claims

Key Points:

• US Pentagon officials announced a two-week ceasefire with Iran, with Iran agreeing to halt uranium enrichment and allow safe passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, though tensions remain as Israel continues strikes in Lebanon against Hezbollah.
• US military leaders claim significant damage to Iran’s military capabilities, including destruction of 90% of its navy fleet and missile programs, with Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth stating Iran “begged” for the ceasefire after heavy strikes.
• Shipping experts caution that despite the ceasefire and some resumed vessel movements through the Strait of Hormuz, major oil and gas tankers remain stranded due to insurance and security concerns, and full normalization of traffic will take time.
• Pakistan is set to host US-Iran talks aimed at resolving the conflict, with Iranian and US delegations expected to participate, marking a diplomatic effort to build on the ceasefire and promote regional peace.
• The Israel Defense Forces launched their largest wave of strikes on Lebanon since the conflict began, targeting Hezbollah infrastructure in Beirut and southern Lebanon, with Lebanon’s prime minister accusing Israel of killing unarmed civilians despite ceasefire efforts.