For years, many people diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome, commonly known as PCOS, have questioned whether the name ever truly reflected what they were experiencing.

Despite being one of the most common hormonal conditions affecting women of reproductive age, many patients diagnosed with PCOS do not actually have ovarian cysts, while symptoms often extend far beyond reproductive health.

Now, doctors and researchers are making a major change.

Polycystic ovary syndrome has officially been renamed polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), a move experts say better reflects the condition’s wide-ranging hormonal and metabolic effects. The change was announced this week in a paper published in The Lancet following years of international consultation.

The condition affects an estimated 10 to 13 per cent of women of reproductive age globally, according to the World Health Organization, though it can also affect transgender people. Symptoms can include irregular periods, acne, excess body hair, fertility struggles and metabolic complications.

So why change the name?

Experts behind the move say “polycystic ovary syndrome” has long been misleading because many diagnosed patients never develop ovarian cysts at all. Instead, doctors increasingly recognise the condition as a broader hormonal and metabolic disorder linked to issues such as insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular risks.

Professor Helena Teede, an endocrinologist who led the international effort behind the change, said the condition had effectively been placed “in the wrong box” for years because too much focus was placed on the ovaries rather than wider health effects.

The decision followed a global review involving dozens of medical organisations, researchers and patient groups, with thousands of healthcare professionals and patients consulted during the process.

Importantly, experts say the new name will not suddenly change diagnosis or treatment. Medical guidance remains the same for now, but doctors hope the shift will improve awareness, reduce stigma and encourage earlier diagnosis and more comprehensive care.

For many patients who have long felt misunderstood, the new name may represent more than a medical update. Doctors hope it marks a broader shift in how the condition itself is understood.

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TEHRAN: Iran said on Wednesday its armed forces were prepared for any possible scenario and warned that those who dared act against the country would face “severe punishment”, as tensions with the United States and Israel continued to rise.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei made the remarks in a lengthy statement posted on X, accusing Washington and Israel of imposing war on Iran and threatening global stability.

Baghaei said the conflict was “not merely about land or resources” but would define the meaning of “good and evil” for the present and future generations.

“The armed forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran are ready for any scenario,” he said, adding that those committing hostility against Iran would receive “severe punishment”.

He urged the international community to reject what he called “barbarism and domination” and to take practical steps before “aggressive powers push the world into lawlessness and subjugation”.

Baghaei accused Iran’s adversaries of celebrating violations of international law and targeting civilians for political objectives.

“Those attacking the peaceful Iranian nation kill people for their own game,” he said, adding that Iran, by contrast, sought to protect innocent lives even during conflict.

He said remaining silent during such a moment amounted to siding with wrongdoing.

Revolutionary Guards stage large-scale Tehran drill

Separately, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps conducted large-scale military exercises in Tehran aimed at improving combat readiness against possible threats from the United States and Israel.

According to Iran’s Fars News Agency, the drill involved rapid response units from the Revolutionary Guards and the بسیج paramilitary force.

The exercise supervisor, Brigadier General Hassan Hassanzadeh, said all planned military strategies, tactics and operational plans were successfully tested and reviewed.

“The enhancement of combat preparedness against American and Israeli aggression was among the key objectives of the exercise, and all goals were fully achieved,” he said.

The drills come amid heightened regional tensions and growing fears of a broader military confrontation involving Iran, Israel and the United States.

Araghchi to attend BRICS summit in India

Baghaei also announced that Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi would travel to India to attend the upcoming BRICS summit.

The visit comes as Tehran seeks diplomatic engagement with major regional and global powers while facing increasing military and economic pressure from the West.

Trump says China’s help on Iran not necessary

Speaking to reporters before departing for China, US President Donald Trump said he would hold detailed discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping regarding the Iran conflict, but downplayed the need for Beijing’s assistance.

“I do not think we need China’s help on Iran,” Trump said.

During the interaction, Trump again referred to Pakistan and Field Marshal Asim Munir, describing him as “a great personality” and praising Pakistan’s role in negotiations.

Pentagon says Iran war costs reach $29 billion

A Pentagon official said the war against Iran had so far cost the United States $29 billion, around $4 billion higher than estimates provided last month.

The figure includes operational and other military-related expenditures linked to the conflict, the official said.

Trump, UAE president discuss Middle East situation

Meanwhile, Trump held a telephone conversation with United Arab Emirates President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to discuss the situation in the Middle East.

According to Emirati media, the two leaders reviewed regional developments, strategic cooperation and ways to strengthen partnership between the United States and the UAE.

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BEIJING: China on Wednesday reiterated its strong opposition to United States arms sales to Taiwan ahead of a summit between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing later this week.

The issue of Taiwan, which China claims as its own territory, is expected to feature prominently during the two days of talks between Trump and Xi.

The United States, despite having no formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, is legally bound to provide the island with means to defend itself. In December, the Trump administration approved an $11 billion arms package for Taiwan, the largest such deal to date.

Speaking in Beijing, China’s Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Zhang Han said Taiwan was an internal matter for China and warned Washington against expanding military cooperation with Taipei.

“We firmly oppose the United States engaging in any form of military ties with China’s Taiwan region, and firmly oppose the United States selling weapons to China’s Taiwan region,” Zhang said.

She added that Taiwan remained “the core of China’s core interests” and urged Washington to honour commitments made under the longstanding “One China” policy.

Under the policy, Washington officially takes no position on Taiwan’s sovereignty, while acknowledging — but not endorsing — Beijing’s claim that the island is part of China.

Trump’s visit comes days after Taiwan’s opposition-controlled parliament approved only two-thirds of a proposed $40 billion special defence budget sought by President Lai Ching-te. The approved spending included funding for US arms purchases, but reduced allocations for domestic defence programmes such as drone development.

A senior US official said Washington was disappointed that Taiwan’s defence spending fell short of expectations.

A senior Taiwan security official told Reuters that Taipei feared Beijing could use the reduced budget to influence Trump during the summit.

According to the official, China may argue that Taiwan’s parliament itself opposed large-scale weapons purchases and use that position to persuade Trump to scale back US military support for the island.

Reuters reported in March that another arms package worth around $14 billion could be approved after Trump’s return from China, though its current status remains unclear.

On Tuesday, Lai told the Copenhagen Democracy Summit that Taiwan was a “sovereign, independent nation” and would not bow to pressure from Beijing.

Rejecting those remarks, Zhang said Taiwan had never been, and would never become, a country.

“Our resolve to oppose Taiwan independence is as firm as a rock, and our capability to crush Taiwan independence is unbreakable,” she said.

China has never ruled out the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control, although Beijing says it still prefers what it calls “peaceful reunification”.

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WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that the United States will not allow Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon, while praising Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir as “incredible people” amid progress in US-Iran peace talks.

President Trump earlier in the day said that the Iran issue is “not urgent,” urging patience and caution in ongoing negotiations during a telephonic interview with American media.

He said there was no need to rush into decisions or diplomatic steps, stressing that Washington should take its time in dealing with the matter.

Trump also said the US has imposed restrictions aimed at cutting off Iran’s access to funds, adding that Tehran must not be allowed to possess nuclear weapons, which he warned it could potentially use.

When asked whether Iran could be prevented from enriching uranium, Trump responded: “100 per cent, they are going to stop.”

He further claimed that Iran would have to deal with nuclear contamination at damaged facilities, saying their infrastructure had been destroyed by US Tomahawk missiles. He added that Iran lacks the capability to carry out such cleanup operations, suggesting that only China and the United States have the necessary expertise and equipment.

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WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that Iran issue “not urgent”, as he urges no rush on negotiations during telephonic interview with American media.

He said that there is no need to hurry in dealing with the Iran issue and emphasised that the United States does not need to rush into any decisions or negotiations.

Trump also said the US has imposed a blockade that prevents Iran from obtaining funds, and added that Iran cannot be allowed to possess nuclear weapons because it would use them.

When asked whether Iran could be stopped from enriching uranium, Trump replied that “100 per cent, they are going to stop.”

He further claimed that Iran would need to remove nuclear dust from its damaged nuclear facilities, saying their infrastructure had been destroyed by US Tomahawk missiles, and suggested that Iran lacks the machinery to handle the cleanup, with only China and the United States capable of doing so.

Meanwhile, Britain announced earlier that it will deploy Typhoon fighter jets, autonomous mine-hunting systems and the warship HMS Dragon as part of a multinational mission aimed at protecting shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating regional tensions.

Defence Secretary John Healey unveiled the plans during a virtual meeting attended by defence ministers from more than 40 countries participating in the operation. He said the mission would become active once conditions permit.

“With our allies, this multinational mission will be defensive, independent and credible,” Healey said.

The conflict involving Iran has significantly disrupted traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil transit route through which nearly 20 percent of the world’s oil supply passes, pushing up energy prices and affecting exports.

Britain said its contribution would be supported by £115 million ($155.5 million) in fresh funding aimed at strengthening maritime security and ensuring freedom of navigation in the region.

The package includes autonomous drones designed to detect and clear naval mines, high-speed drone boats, Typhoon aircraft for air patrols, and HMS Dragon, an air-defence destroyer already heading toward the Middle East.

The UK currently has more than 1,000 military personnel stationed in the region as part of existing defensive operations, including counter-drone teams and fast-jet units.

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WASHINGTON/DUBAI: Hopes for a peace agreement between the United States and Iran weakened further on Tuesday after US President Donald Trump dismissed Tehran’s latest response to Washington’s ceasefire proposal as “garbage”, while Iran reiterated demands that included an end to the US naval blockade and recognition of its sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz.

Speaking to reporters, Trump said the ceasefire announced on April 7 was now “on life support” after reviewing Iran’s counterproposal.

“I would call it the weakest right now, after reading that piece of garbage they sent us. I didn’t even finish reading it,” Trump said, adding that Tehran’s response had threatened the future of the truce.

The sharp exchange underscored growing tensions between the two countries as fighting and economic pressure continue to unsettle global energy markets and raise fears of a wider regional conflict.

Iran has demanded an end to military action across the region, including in Lebanon where Israel continues operations against Hezbollah fighters backed by Tehran. Iranian officials also called for compensation for war-related damage, the lifting of the US blockade and recognition of Iran’s authority over the Strait of Hormuz.

The United States had initially proposed halting hostilities before beginning negotiations on contentious issues such as Iran’s nuclear programme.

Meanwhile, the Pentagon said the cost of the conflict had risen to $29 billion, up by $4 billion compared to estimates released last month.

Oil prices surge

The diplomatic deadlock pushed global oil prices sharply higher, with Brent crude nearing $108 per barrel on Tuesday.

Markets remain focused on the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway through which nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas shipments passed before the war erupted on February 28.

Shipping activity through the strait has slowed dramatically amid fears of further escalation. Data from shipping trackers Kpler and LSEG showed only three crude tankers exited the waterway last week, with vessels reportedly switching off tracking systems to avoid potential attacks.

The US Central Command said the aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln remained deployed in the Arabian Sea to enforce the naval blockade against Iran. According to the military, the carrier group redirected 65 commercial vessels and disabled four others.

Regional tensions also spilled into neighbouring Gulf states. Kuwait announced the arrest of four alleged infiltrators linked to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards who attempted to enter the country by sea, according to state news agency KUNA. Iran did not immediately respond to the allegation.

Iran signals defiance

Iranian officials issued statements indicating Tehran was unwilling to soften its position despite mounting pressure.

According to Iran’s Fars news agency, Mohammad Akbarzadeh, deputy political director of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy, said Iran had expanded its operational definition of the Strait of Hormuz under a new military strategy.

He reportedly described the zone as stretching from the coastal city of Jask in eastern Iran to Siri Island in the west.

In another sign of escalating rhetoric, parliamentary national security commission spokesperson Ebrahim Rezaei said Iran could enrich uranium up to 90 per cent purity — considered weapons-grade level — if the country faced another attack.

State television also showed Revolutionary Guards conducting military drills in Tehran focused on “preparation to confront the enemy”.

The United States on Monday imposed fresh sanctions on individuals and companies accused of helping Iran export oil to China. Washington said the measures were aimed at restricting funding for Tehran’s military and nuclear programmes while warning financial institutions against sanctions evasion.

Trump heads to China

Trump is expected to arrive in Beijing on Wednesday, where Iran is likely to feature prominently in talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The worsening crisis has also increased political pressure on the White House domestically as fuel prices continue to rise ahead of congressional elections later this year.

A Reuters/Ipsos poll released on Monday showed that two out of three Americans believe Trump has failed to clearly explain why the United States entered the war. The survey also found that almost all Democrats and one in three Republicans shared those concerns.

In response to rising fuel costs, Trump said he would temporarily suspend the federal gasoline tax.

“As soon as this is over with Iran, as soon as it’s over, you’re going to see gasoline and oil drop like a rock,” he said.

International concern grows

In Doha, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan urged efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and warned against using the key shipping route as a “weapon” during the conflict.

Washington has struggled to build broader international backing for military efforts in the Gulf, with NATO allies reportedly reluctant to participate in operations aimed at reopening the waterway without a comprehensive peace agreement and an internationally mandated mission.

The US State Department said Secretary of State Marco Rubio held separate discussions with British and Australian counterparts regarding “efforts to restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz”.

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TEHRAN: Iran could enrich uranium up to 90 per cent if the United States launches another attack on the country, Iranian Parliamentary Commission spokesperson Ebrahim Rezaei said on Tuesday.

“One of Iran’s responses in the event of another US-Israeli attack on its territory could be 90 per cent enrichment. We will review it in parliament,” Rezaei said in a post on X.

The statement came as hopes for a peace agreement between Tehran and Washington weakened after US President Donald Trump said a ceasefire with Iran was “on life support”.

Trump criticised Tehran’s response to a US proposal aimed at ending the conflict, saying Iran had rejected the offer and maintained demands he described as “garbage”.

Iran has called for an end to fighting across the region, including in Lebanon where Israel is engaged in conflict with Iran-backed Hezbollah. Tehran has also demanded recognition of its sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz, compensation for war damages and an end to the US naval blockade.

Meanwhile, tensions in the region continued to impact global energy markets, with Brent crude oil futures rising above $104 per barrel amid disruptions in shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

The United States on Monday imposed fresh sanctions on individuals and companies accused of helping Iran export oil to China, in a move Washington said was aimed at restricting funding for Tehran’s military and nuclear programmes.

Trump is expected to visit Beijing on Wednesday, where Iran is likely to be discussed during talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

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WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump said on Monday that that he aims at suspending the federal gas tax "for a period of time." Following his statement, customers across the United States search ‘How much is the federal gas tax’?

President Trump said in a phone interview with CBS News today that "I think it's a great idea”. "Yup, we're going to take off the gas tax for a period of time, and when gas goes down, we'll let it phase back in," he added.

It may also be mentioned that the gas prices in US have increased by more than 50 per cent since the start of the Iran war on February 28.

Following the massive blow to the citizens in the federally administered gas prices here it hit a new high of over $4.52 on Sunday, according to AAA.

Analysts say the prices are likely to remain high with Iran blocking access to the Strait of Hormuz.

But suspending the excise taxes, 18.4 cents per gallon on gas and 24.4 cents a gallon on diesel, requires an act of Congress, and pausing it would cost the federal government about a half billion dollars a week.

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LONDON: The OVO Energy customers have been told that all the existing tariffs will be honoured in full and their gas and electricity service will be unaffected after the E.ON announced to buy the company.

A planned takeover is set to create Britain’s largest energy supplier, overtaking current market leader Octopus in customer numbers.

Under the proposed deal, E.ON UK, which serves around 5.6 million customers, would acquire OVO Energy, which has about four million customers.

Both companies will continue operating separately while the deal undergoes regulatory review, with approval expected later this year.

Although the value of the transaction has not been officially disclosed, earlier estimates suggest it could be worth up to £600 million. Regulators are expected to scrutinise the deal before granting any final approval.

Both firms have assured customers that there will be no immediate changes. Existing tariffs, including fixed-rate contracts, will be honoured for the full duration, and customers will not need to take any action during the review period.

Energy experts also emphasised that supply continuity and credit balances would remain protected, even if the deal goes ahead.

Price comparison site Uswitch noted that while some customers may feel uncertain, their accounts and balances would be automatically transferred under any approved deal.

E.ON executives described the UK as a key growth market, highlighting the importance of energy flexibility and electrification in the transition to cleaner systems.

Ovo’s founder also said the move represents a “right next step” for customers, employees, and efforts toward achieving net zero goals.

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HAGUE: The International Criminal Court (ICC) has confirmed that it issued an arrest warrant for a close ally of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, Senator Ronald dela Rosa, over alleged crimes against humanity linked to the country’s war on drugs.

According to the ICC, the warrant was issued confidentially and under seal by Pre-Trial Chamber I on November 6, 2025. The court said it is now in the process of unsealing the document and will share it publicly once available.

The ICC stated it is accusing dela Rosa of responsibility in overseeing Duterte’s anti-drug campaign, which has faced long-standing international scrutiny over alleged human rights abuses.

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LONDON: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Monday promised a more “bold and urgent” approach to governing as he sought to revive his political fortunes and head off growing speculation over a potential leadership challenge within the Labour Party.

Speaking in London, Starmer made an impassioned appeal to voters and his party to give him more time, warning that any leadership contest would plunge the government into “chaos” at a time of global instability and domestic economic pressure.

“I know I have my doubters and I know I need to prove them wrong. And I will,” Starmer said, acknowledging frustration over his leadership following a series of poor local election results.

The prime minister said Britain faced one of the most dangerous global environments in decades, citing conflicts including Ukraine and tensions in the Middle East, and pledged a “complete break” from past policymaking to restore public trust and improve living standards.

He said his government would now focus on delivering a “stronger, fairer” Britain, aiming to counter political pressure from the right-wing Reform UK party and the Green Party.

Starmer, who led Labour to a landslide victory in 2024, admitted mistakes but defended key decisions, including his stance on foreign policy and efforts to stabilise public services.

“I’m not going to walk away,” he said, rejecting calls from some within his party for a leadership timetable or contest.

His remarks come amid growing internal debate within Labour after significant losses in local elections across England, Scotland and Wales.

Catherine West, a junior former minister, has called for a leadership contest timetable, while others have urged immediate change. However, no senior Labour figure has formally challenged Starmer.

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, seen as a potential rival, said the government would ultimately be judged on “actions, not words”.

Starmer said further policy announcements would be included in an upcoming King’s Speech, including measures on apprenticeships, industry support and potential reforms to education and infrastructure.

“I also feel a deep sense of personal responsibility to deliver on the mandate we won in 2024,” he said, asking critics for “another chance” to prove his leadership.

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HONG KONG: Marriage registrations in China fell to a decade low in the first quarter of 2026, dropping 6.2 per cent year-on-year and highlighting deepening demographic challenges in the world’s second-largest economy, official data showed.

According to data released by the Ministry of Civil Affairs, China recorded 1.697 million marriage registrations during the January–March period, nearly half the level seen in 2017.

The decline underscores mounting concerns over the country’s shrinking and ageing population, with demographers warning of long-term economic and social pressures.

China’s population declined for a fourth consecutive year in 2025, while its birth rate fell to a record low, reflecting persistent reluctance among young couples to marry and have children amid rising living costs and economic uncertainty.

In China, childbirth has traditionally been closely linked to marriage, both due to cultural norms and administrative rules in some regions that tie access to benefits and birth registration to a marriage certificate.

The government has introduced a series of measures aimed at reversing the trend, including family subsidies, expanded childcare support and efforts to reduce medical costs associated with childbirth.

Despite these steps, marriage rates continue to slide, adding pressure on policymakers already grappling with a rapidly ageing population and slowing economic growth.

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TEHRAN: Iranian Nobel Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi has been transferred from prison to a hospital in Tehran and granted a suspension of her sentence on heavy bail, a foundation run by her family said on Sunday.

Mohammadi, 54, who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2023 while imprisoned, is being treated at Tehran’s Pars Hospital by her own medical team after being moved by ambulance from Zanjan prison, according to the Narges Mohammadi Foundation.

The prominent rights activist suffered a heart attack two weeks ago, prompting renewed concerns over her health and calls from her family for improved medical treatment.

Her family had urged authorities to transfer her from Zanjan, northwest of Tehran, where she had been serving her prison sentence and was initially hospitalised.

The foundation did not disclose details about the bail arrangements or the duration of the suspension of her sentence.

“However, a suspension is not enough,” the foundation said in a statement. “Narges Mohammadi requires permanent, specialized care. We must ensure she never returns to prison.”

Mohammadi was sentenced earlier this year to an additional seven-and-a-half years in prison, according to the foundation.

Iranian authorities arrested her in December after she criticised the death of lawyer Khosrow Alikordi during a memorial ceremony, Iranian prosecutors said at the time.

Mohammadi has long campaigned for women’s rights and against Iran’s death penalty laws, becoming one of the Islamic Republic’s most prominent human rights activists.

The Nobel Committee had earlier called on Tehran to immediately release her.

Iran has faced mounting criticism from international rights groups over restrictions on freedoms and the execution of people linked to anti-government unrest in recent months.

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TEHRAN: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Monday that Tehran’s “rational and logical” choice was to turn its military gains into diplomatic success, according to Iran’s Mehr News Agency.

Speaking during a meeting with senior officers of Iran’s Law Enforcement Force (FARAJA), Pezeshkian said that the country faced three possible paths after the conflict: negotiations from a position of strength, remaining in a state of “neither war nor peace”, or continued confrontation.

“The rational and logical preference, grounded in national interest, is for the victory secured by the Armed Forces on the battlefield to be completed in the diplomatic arena, with the rights of the Iranian people established from a position of dignity and authority,” Pezeshkian said, according to Mehr.

The Iranian president said that Tehran viewed diplomacy as possible while maintaining distrust toward its adversaries.

“The Islamic Republic of Iran, on this same basis, while maintaining distrust of the enemy, considers negotiations possible — from a position of dignity, wisdom, and expediency,” he said.

Pezeshkian said that Iran would honour any agreement reached in line with the guidance of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the interests of the Iranian people.

According to Mehr, Pezeshkian also referred to the teachings of Imam Ali from Nahj al-Balaghah , saying Iran should not reject peace if offered by an adversary, but should also avoid trusting the enemy after peace is achieved.

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WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump on Monday dismissed Iran’s response to a US-backed peace proposal as “totally unacceptable”, while global oil prices jumped amid fears that the conflict around the Strait of Hormuz could continue disrupting energy supplies.

The latest exchange came as tensions remained high more than 10 weeks after the conflict began, with the strategic Strait of Hormuz — through which nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas normally passes — largely paralysed.

Iran’s response to the US proposal called for an end to the conflict across the region, including in Lebanon where Israel continues fighting Iran-backed Hezbollah militants.

Tehran also demanded an end to the US naval blockade, lifting of sanctions, guarantees against further attacks and the release of Iranian assets frozen under US pressure, according to Iranian media reports.

Iran further stressed its sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz and sought compensation for war-related damages.

Trump swiftly rejected the proposal in a post on Truth Social.

“I don’t like it — TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE,” Trump wrote without elaborating.

The US proposal had reportedly sought an immediate halt to fighting before broader negotiations on Iran’s nuclear programme and regional issues.

Following Trump’s remarks, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei defended Tehran’s position, calling it a “generous and responsible” proposal.

“Our demand is legitimate: demanding an end to the war, lifting the blockade and releasing Iranian assets,” Baghaei said, adding that regional security and safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz were also key components of Iran’s proposal.

Oil prices rose more than 3.5 per cent on Monday as concerns deepened over continued disruption to shipping through the vital waterway.

Shipping data showed limited tanker movement through the strait in recent days, with some vessels reportedly turning off tracking systems to avoid potential attacks.

The ongoing conflict has increased pressure on the Trump administration domestically and internationally, particularly as rising fuel prices weigh on US consumers ahead of congressional elections later this year.

Washington has also struggled to secure wider international support for military efforts aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, with NATO allies reluctant to join operations without a broader peace agreement.

Trump is expected to visit China later this week, where the Iran conflict is likely to feature prominently in talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The US president has been urging Beijing to use its influence over Tehran to push for a diplomatic settlement.

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the conflict was not over and stressed the need to eliminate Iran’s enriched uranium stockpiles, dismantle enrichment facilities and curb Tehran’s ballistic missile capabilities.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, in a social media post, said Tehran would “never bow down to the enemy” and would continue defending its national interests.

Regional tensions also remained elevated, with the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Kuwait reporting drone-related security incidents in recent days.

Clashes between Israel and Hezbollah have also continued in southern Lebanon despite a US-brokered ceasefire announced last month.

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President Donald Trump on Monday sharply rejected Iran’s response to a US peace proposal aimed at ending the weeks-long conflict between the two countries, a move that further escalated tensions and triggered a sharp rise in global oil prices amid continued disruption in the Strait of Hormuz.

The dispute comes as the strategic waterway, a major route for global oil and gas shipments, remains largely paralysed after more than two months of conflict. Concerns over prolonged instability in the region pushed oil prices up by over 3.5 per cent on Monday as fears grew that negotiations between Washington and Tehran could collapse.

Iran’s response to the US proposal, released over the weekend, focused on ending hostilities across the region, including in Lebanon, where fighting continues between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah group. Tehran also demanded compensation for damages caused during the conflict and reiterated its claim over sovereignty and security responsibilities in the Strait of Hormuz.

Iranian officials further called for an end to the US naval blockade, the lifting of sanctions, guarantees against future attacks and the removal of restrictions on Iranian oil exports.

Trump swiftly dismissed Tehran’s proposal, calling it “totally unacceptable” in a post on Truth Social, though he did not provide additional details regarding the US objections.

The US proposal had reportedly sought an immediate halt to fighting before broader negotiations on disputed issues, including Iran’s nuclear programme, could begin.

Following Washington’s rejection, Iran defended its position and described its offer as a responsible step towards restoring stability in the region.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said Iran’s demands were justified and included ending the war, removing what he described as an unlawful blockade, and releasing Iranian assets frozen under US pressure. He also said Tehran’s proposals regarding secure navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and regional stability should be viewed as constructive efforts to restore peace.

The prolonged standoff has intensified concerns over global energy security. Before the conflict erupted in late February, the Strait of Hormuz handled roughly 20 per cent of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas trade. Although shipping activity has slowed significantly, tracking data showed that at least three oil tankers recently passed through the strait with tracking systems turned off to avoid potential attacks.

The conflict has also created political pressure for the Trump administration domestically, as rising fuel prices have become a growing concern ahead of upcoming congressional elections in the United States. Washington has also struggled to gain broader international support, with NATO allies reportedly unwilling to deploy naval forces to reopen the strait without a comprehensive peace agreement and an internationally authorised mission.

Attention is now turning to Trump’s expected visit to Beijing later this week, where discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping are likely to include the Iran crisis and the growing global energy emergency. The US administration has been urging China to use its influence to push Tehran toward a settlement.

Despite a ceasefire that reduced large-scale fighting in early April, sporadic clashes and regional security incidents continue. The United Arab Emirates said it intercepted two drones launched from Iran, while Qatar condemned an attack on a cargo vessel in its territorial waters. Kuwait also reported intercepting hostile drones that entered its airspace.

Meanwhile, clashes between Israel and Hezbollah have continued in southern Lebanon despite a separate US-mediated ceasefire announced last month. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said military operations linked to Iran’s nuclear infrastructure and regional proxy groups were not yet complete, although he stated that diplomacy remained the preferred path for addressing Iran’s enriched uranium stockpiles.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, however, insisted Tehran would continue defending its national interests and would not yield to external pressure as diplomatic efforts to break the deadlock remain uncertain.

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Iran on Monday described its proposal aimed at ending hostilities with the United States and reopening the Strait of Hormuz as a fair and constructive initiative, while accusing Washington of maintaining what it called unreasonable demands and continued economic pressure.

Speaking at a media briefing, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said Tehran’s key demands include an end to the conflict, removal of US restrictions and sanctions, and the release of Iranian assets frozen abroad under American pressure. He added that ensuring secure passage through the Strait of Hormuz, along with maintaining stability in the wider region and Lebanon, formed part of Iran’s broader proposal for regional security.

CHINA CONDEMNS US SANCTIONS

Separately, China strongly criticised new US sanctions imposed on three Chinese companies accused by Washington of supporting Iran’s military operations. Beijing called the measures unilateral and unlawful.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Chinese businesses are expected to operate within legal frameworks and stressed that Beijing would protect the lawful interests of its companies. He also said the immediate priority should be preventing any renewed escalation in fighting rather than linking other countries to the conflict or using the situation to make accusations.

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WEB DESK: The Iranian human rights activist and Nobel Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi has been granted a temporary release from prison on medical grounds, her foundation has confirmed.

The 54-year-old campaigner, who has spent much of the past two decades in and out of Iranian custody, was transferred from a prison in Zanjan to a hospital in Tehran on Sunday, according to Reuters.

The move follows weeks of mounting international pressure and grave warnings from her family that her life was "hanging in the balance" after she suffered two suspected heart attacks behind bars.

Critical health decline and hospital transfer

According to the Narges Mohammadi Foundation, the activist was granted a "sentence suspension on heavy bail" after her condition deteriorated to a point that prison doctors could no longer manage.

She was reportedly transported by ambulance to Tehran Pars Hospital, where she is now being treated by her own specialist medical team.

Supporters have painted a harrowing picture of her recent weeks in Zanjan prison, north-west of the capital.

Her lawyers claim she has lost approximately 20kg (three stone) and is currently "unrecognisable" compared to her state before her most recent arrest in December.

Her Paris-based husband, Taghi Rahmani, stated that while the hospital transfer was a necessary step, a "temporary transfer is not enough" given the severity of her "catastrophic health failure."

A decade of activism and imprisonment

Mohammadi was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2023 for her tireless work against the oppression of women in Iran and her fight for human rights and freedom for all.

Despite the international accolade, she remained incarcerated, facing a total sentence that still has 18 years remaining.

Her latest arrest occurred late last year after she publicly criticised the Iranian authorities during a memorial service for a human rights lawyer.

Her foundation and family have now issued a renewed plea for her unconditional freedom, arguing that returning her to prison would be a "death sentence."

They maintain that she was subjected to "systematic medical neglect" for 140 days prior to this bail agreement.

As she begins treatment in Tehran, human rights organisations worldwide are watching closely, calling for the permanent dismissal of all charges against the laureate.

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Indian opposition leader Rahul Gandhi launched a sharp attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the Indian premier urged citizens to reduce expenses and adopt austerity measures amid growing economic pressure in the country.

In a fiery social media post, Rahul Gandhi mocked Modi’s recent appeals asking citizens to avoid unnecessary fuel consumption, reduce the use of cooking oil and fertilizers, limit foreign travel, and rely more on public transport and remote work. Gandhi claimed these were not “national sacrifices” but evidence of the government’s inability to manage the economy after more than a decade in power.

The Congress leader accused the Modi administration of repeatedly shifting responsibility for economic hardship onto ordinary Indians instead of accepting accountability for inflation, rising fuel prices, and weakening purchasing power. He argued that citizens were now being told what to buy, where to travel, and how to live because of policy failures at the top.

Gandhi further alleged that the government’s economic narrative had turned into a cycle where the public bears the burden while political leadership avoids criticism. In his remarks, he described Modi as a “compromised” prime minister struggling to effectively run the country, escalating the already heated political war between India’s ruling BJP government and the opposition Congress party.

The comments quickly triggered debate across Indian social media, with opposition supporters amplifying Gandhi’s criticism while BJP backers defended the government’s calls for economic discipline and reduced consumption.

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WEB DESK: Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, has issued a firm reminder to Tehran regarding maritime security, asserting that the freedom of navigation remains a "non-negotiable" pillar of international law.

During a high-level diplomatic exchange with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, the Qatari Premier underscored the gravity of maintaining stability in one of the world’s most vital maritime arteries.

The discussions come amid heightened regional tensions, with Doha playing its characteristic role as a key mediator in Gulf affairs, according to Dawn News.

A non-negotiable principle

Sheikh Mohammed clarified that the right of vessels to transit international waters is not subject to debate or political maneuvering.

By invoking the established frameworks of international law, the Prime Minister sought to reinforce the global consensus that shipping lanes must remain insulated from geopolitical friction.

He emphasised that any attempt to obstruct passage would be viewed as a breach of fundamental legal norms that govern global trade and security.

Risk of deepening regional crisis

Addressing the specific strategic threat to the Strait of Hormuz, the Qatari Foreign Minister warned that utilizing the waterway as a "pressure tactic" would be counterproductive.

He noted that any closure, or even the threat of one, would serve only to exacerbate the current regional instability and invite further escalation.

Doha’s message was clear: the economic and security consequences of such a move would far outweigh any perceived short-term political leverage, potentially dragging the region into a deeper and more unpredictable conflict.

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