America warns Iran: If you don't accept the peace deal, war could start again; Naval blockade continues, 14 ships turned back in 72 hours

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America warns Iran: If you don't accept the peace deal, war could start again; Naval blockade continues, 14 ships turned back in 72 hours

America has warned Iran that if it does not adhere to the peace deal, war could restart. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that Iran has a chance to reach an agreement, but if it refuses, the US will resume military action.

He mentioned that US forces are fully prepared and can commence combat operations at any time. Hegseth also said that the US military is awaiting President Donald Trump's orders and action can be initiated as soon as directives are received.

Hegseth stated that the US will continue its naval blockade on Iran. He made it clear that this action will continue until the US achieves its strategic objectives.

Meanwhile, US General Dan Caine reported that 13 ships have turned back due to the blockade so far. Most of these ships turned back after reaching the blockade limit, while one changed its course earlier.

The US Navy guided-missile destroyer USS Spruance intercepted and turned back an Iranian ship on Wednesday.

US-Iran peace agreement close

The US and Iran are nearing an agreement before the ceasefire expires on April 21. According to US media, talks between the two sides have progressed, although some differences remain.

Meanwhile, an important meeting is scheduled in Tehran between Iranian officials and Pakistani Army Chief Asim Munir. Munir has already arrived in Iran and met with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, carrying a message from the US.

Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey are playing the role of mediators. On the other side, US Vice President JD Vance, Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner are jointly engaging in talks and sharing draft proposals. According to officials, the ceasefire may be extended to finalize the deal, although the US has not yet given formal consent.

A meeting between the US and Iran took place in Islamabad on April 11 with Pakistan's mediation, which proved inconclusive.

4 major updates from the last 24 hours...

· Iran warned that if the US blockade continues, it will halt maritime trade in the Red Sea, the Gulf of Oman, and the Persian Gulf.

· The death toll from Israeli attacks in Lebanon has risen to 2,167, with over 7,000 people injured.

· Signs of progress have emerged in talks between the US and Iran over the nuclear issue. Efforts for an agreement before April 21 continue, and a Pakistani delegation has arrived in Tehran.

· Israel claimed it attacked over 200 Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon within 24 hours.

Live Updates

4 minutes ago: Photos of children killed in US attack plastered on Tehran streets

Photos of children killed in a US attack have been displayed on the streets of Tehran, the capital of Iran. These children were killed in an attack on a girls' elementary school in Minab, which resulted in 168 deaths and 96 injuries. According to Iranian media, the Shajareh Tayyebeh Girls' Elementary School in Minab, Hormozgan province, was targeted. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that the death of innocent children will be avenged, and the matter has been raised in the UN Security Council. The Israeli army has denied knowledge of this attack, while the US military has said it is investigating the reports.

16 minutes ago: Lebanese President thanked Trump for ceasefire efforts

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun thanked US President Donald Trump for his ceasefire efforts during a phone conversation. According to the President's office, the two leaders discussed the current situation in Lebanon. Aoun stated that a ceasefire is urgently needed for peace and stability in the country.

35 minutes ago: US turned back 14 ships in 72 hours under blockade

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) claimed that 14 ships had to turn back within 72 hours of implementing the blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. According to CENTCOM, these ships changed course instead of proceeding after US action. The US clarified that this blockade applies only to ships entering or leaving Iranian ports.

47 minutes ago: Photos from after the Israeli attack on Nabatieh, Lebanon...

54 minutes ago: French President spoke to PM Modi on the Hormuz issue

French President Emmanuel Macron spoke to Prime Minister Narendra Modi by phone, discussing the issue of ship safety and movement in the Strait of Hormuz. During the conversation, both leaders expressed concern over the escalating tensions in West Asia. They emphasized the need for the swift restoration of safe and unhindered ship movement in the Strait of Hormuz. Both leaders also agreed to continue mutual cooperation to maintain peace and stability in the region.

08:19 pm, April 16, 2026: Israel said - If Iran doesn't agree to the deal, even more painful attacks will follow

Israel warned Iran that if it does not reach an agreement in the ongoing talks with the US, it will face even more painful attacks than before. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that Iran has two paths: move forward through an agreement or head towards isolation and destruction. He indicated that targets not yet struck could face more severe consequences in future actions. Katz said that what happens next depends entirely on Iran's decision, and it will bear the responsibility for the consequences.

08:04 pm, April 16, 2026: Hezbollah MP said - Direct talks with Israel are a serious mistake

Hezbollah MP Hussein Haj Hassan called the Lebanese government's decision for direct talks with Israel a serious mistake. He appealed to the government to immediately stop this process. Haj Hassan stated that direct talks with an enemy like Israel are not in the country's interest. He accused the Lebanese government of making concessions to Israel and the US.

07:59 pm, April 16, 2026: Trump praised Pakistani PM and Army Chief

Trump praised Pakistan's Prime Minister and Army Chief, stating they are doing a good job on the Iran issue. Trump called both leaders excellent and praised their leadership. He said that Pakistan's close relations with Iran are helping to move the talks forward. According to Trump, Pakistan is continuously making efforts in this direction, and positive progress is visible.

07:40 pm, April 16, 2026: Report - Ceasefire possible in Lebanon from tonight

A ceasefire is expected to be implemented in Lebanon starting tonight. According to Israeli media reports, the army has been ordered to prepare for a potential ceasefire. The report stated that the ceasefire could become effective tonight, though no official confirmation has been given yet.

07:34 pm, April 16, 2026: Israeli air strike destroys Qasmiyeh bridge in Lebanon

The Qasmiyeh bridge was completely destroyed following an Israeli air strike in southern Lebanon. Emerging photos show scenes of massive devastation, with the bridge's structure shattered and debris scattered across the area. The photos clearly show a large portion of the bridge collapsed, with concrete pieces falling into the river, completely severing connectivity. This bridge was a crucial route between Tyre and Sidon, and its destruction has impacted travel between the two regions. Reports indicate Israeli aircraft conducted two consecutive air strikes on the bridge, causing its complete destruction.

07:23 pm, April 16, 2026: Iranian Army Chief said - Ready to sacrifice myself for the country

Iran's Army Chief Amir Hatami stated that he is ready to sacrifice himself for the defense of the country. Warning the US and Israel, he said their dream of making Iran surrender will never come true. He stated that their attempts to bring Iran to its knees will fail. The dream of the US and Israel will go to the grave. He also said that the Iranian army is on high alert and fully prepared to respond to any potential attack.

07:10 pm, April 16, 2026: Entire education system in Iran to go online from April 21

Iran has decided to shift its entire education system online starting April 21. According to Tasnim News, a spokesperson for Iran's Ministry of Education stated that studies in all schools across the country will be conducted online from April 21. This system will not be limited only to schools but will apply to all educational institutions, with online studies commencing simultaneously nationwide. According to the report, this arrangement will continue until further orders, and students will have to study online for the time being.

06:53 pm, April 16, 2026: Lebanese President refused to talk to Netanyahu

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has refused to hold talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He made it clear that no discussions will take place until a ceasefire is established. According to Al Jazeera, a Lebanese official stated they have made it clear to the US that they are not ready for such talks at this time. Lebanese officials have told the US and Israel that they will not engage in any further talks before a ceasefire is established between Lebanon and Hezbollah. Earlier, Trump had claimed that Israeli and Lebanese leaders were about to talk, although he did not provide further details. (Photo is of Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, who assumed office last January).

06:39 pm, April 16, 2026: US said - Will also attack ships helping Iran

The US has issued a stern warning regarding the naval blockade imposed on Iran. US General Dan Caine stated that any ship attempting to break the blockade could be attacked and fired upon if necessary. This includes stopping, boarding, and seizing the ship. Caine reported that 13 ships have turned back due to the blockade so far. Most turned back after reaching the blockade limit, while one changed its course earlier. He said that no ship boarding has been necessary yet, as all ships turned back after receiving warnings.

06:30 pm, April 16, 2026: US claims - Iran's Supreme Leader Mujtaba injured

The US has claimed that Iran's Supreme Leader Mujtaba Khamenei is injured. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said in a press briefing that information has been received about the top Iranian leader's injury. He has previously made similar claims regarding injuries to Iran's leadership. However, neither the Iranian government nor any official source has confirmed this.

06:24 pm, April 16, 2026: Hegseth said - Iran cannot regain its lost military power

Hegseth stated that Iran cannot regain its lost military power. He said there is a big difference in military strength between the US and Iran, and this is not an equal contest. Hegseth warned Iran's military leadership, saying, "We are watching you." He stated that the US is monitoring every activity of Iran. Hegseth claimed that Iran is now just removing its remaining launchers and missiles but lacks the capacity to rebuild them. Hegseth said the US military is continuously becoming stronger and is ready with more power than before. He also stated that the US military is ready to act at any moment on the President's order, and operations can be initiated "at the push of a button."

06:16 pm, April 16, 2026: Hegseth said - War will resume if Iran doesn't agree to deal

Pete Hegseth warned Iran that if it does not accept the proposed deal, the US will start the war again. Hegseth said Iran has the option to reach an agreement, but if it refuses, the US will resume military action. He mentioned that US forces are positioned so they can resume combat operations at any time.

06:10 pm, April 16, 2026: US Defense Secretary said - Blockade on Iran will continue

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that the US will continue its naval blockade on Iran. He made it clear that this action will continue until the US achieves its strategic objectives. Hegseth said the US is in no hurry to end this blockade.

05:59 pm, April 16, 2026: Pope Leo said - Some dictators are destroying the world

During his Cameroon tour, Pope Leo said that the world is being destroyed by some dictators. He alleged that billions of dollars are being spent on war, while resources are not available for treatment, education, and reconstruction. Pope Leo stated that those promoting war refuse to accept that while destruction takes a moment, even a whole lifetime is insufficient to rebuild.

05:38 pm, April 16, 2026: Israeli army blew up bridge in Lebanon

The Israeli army blew up a key bridge in southern Lebanon with an air strike. This bridge was the last connectivity between Tyre and Sidon. According to Lebanon's National News Agency, Israeli aircraft carried out two consecutive attacks on the Qasmiyeh bridge, completely destroying it. This bridge was a major route for travel between Tyre and Sidon. Its destruction is likely to affect connectivity between the two areas. The Qasmiyeh bridge was strategically important for supply and movement in the region. Its destruction could impact logistics at the local level.

05:11 pm, April 16, 2026: Iranian embassy mocked Trump

The Iranian embassy in Tajikistan released a video mocking an old post by President Trump. Trump had posted a picture depicting himself as Jesus, which was deleted after criticism. The embassy's post is a response to this. In the video, Jesus Trump is shown being pushed into the fires of hell.

04:57 pm, April 16, 2026: China asked Iran to open Strait of Hormuz

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi appealed to Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi to resume traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. He stated that keeping this vital sea route open is in the interest of all countries. Wang Yi said that while Iran's sovereignty and security in Hormuz must be respected, the safe and free passage of ships through this route must also be guaranteed. He also said that China supports maintaining the ceasefire and resuming talks.

04:36 pm, April 16, 2026: **Iran suffered $270 billion loss in 40 days of war**

Iran has suffered a loss of nearly $270 billion in just 40 days. This figure has been provided by the government. The impact has also been felt by ordinary people, with a burden of approximately $1,600 to $3,000 per person. Experts estimate that the war could cause a 10% decline in Iran's economy. According to Iran's Central Bank, it could take 10 to 12 years for the economy to fully recover. The petrochemical sector has been hit hardest by the war. About 85% of the export capacity in this sector has been affected, resulting in an estimated loss of $30 to $50 billion. The energy sector has also been severely impacted. Damage to refineries and gas plants has caused a loss of $15 to $25 billion.

04:19 pm, April 16, 2026: Pakistani Army Chief met Iranian Parliament Speaker

Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Asim Munir, met with the Speaker of Iran's Parliament, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, in Tehran on Thursday. This information was provided by Iranian state media. Munir's visit to Iran comes at a time when Pakistan is trying to prevent renewed tension or conflict in the region. As part of this effort, Islamabad also hosted the first round of peace talks between the relevant parties last week.

04:00 pm, April 16, 2026: Iran said - Many countries suddenly remember international law now

The Iranian embassy in Japan posted a message stating: When the US and Israel started their attack on Iran, many countries, despite knowing it was an open violation of international law and the UN Charter, allowed it to happen and made no effort to stop it. Some countries even allowed the US to use their territory and airspace. Now that the consequences are appearing and affecting them too, those same countries have suddenly started talking about international law.

03:47 pm, April 16, 2026: Drone production speed accelerates in Iran

Iran has increased the production of its weapons in recent months, particularly accelerating the pace of drone manufacturing. According to Tasnim News, a senior Iranian army official, Mahmoud Sheikh Hassani, stated that after the war facilitated by Israel and the US in June, drone production speed has been increased nearly 10-fold.

03:36 pm, April 16, 2026: Pakistani PM Shehbaz arrives in Qatar

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif received a grand welcome during his visit to Qatar. As his aircraft entered Qatari airspace, Qatari Air Force fighter jets escorted it to the airport, providing a security cordon