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Start your day informed with the AnewZ Morning Brief. Here are the top stories for 7 April, covering the latest developments you need to know.
Israel has intensified strikes on Iranian infrastructure, while Iran has rejected a Pakistan-mediated ceasefire proposal. The escalation comes as U.S. President Donald Trump’s deadline for a deal on reopening the Strait of Hormuz expires later today, with warnings that no targets will be off limits without an agreement. Tehran insists it will not bow to pressure, demanding a permanent end to hostilities, sanctions relief, and security guarantees for maritime routes.
Iran’s military has dismissed Trump’s warnings as “delusional”, rejecting proposals for a temporary ceasefire and instead calling for a comprehensive end to the conflict. Washington has threatened large-scale strikes on critical infrastructure if no agreement is reached, raising concerns over potential violations of international law. The Strait of Hormuz remains largely restricted, continuing to disrupt global energy flows and drive volatility in oil markets.
The United Nations Security Council is expected to vote today on a revised resolution aimed at protecting commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The latest draft removes authorisation for the use of force following opposition from China and Russia, instead encouraging coordinated defensive measures such as escorting vessels. Diplomats say the softened language improves the chances of adoption.
NASA’s Artemis II crew has reached a record distance from Earth, surpassing the milestone set during Apollo 13. The astronauts experienced a 40-minute communication blackout while passing behind the Moon, before successfully re-establishing contact. The mission is already delivering valuable scientific observations, including meteor impacts on the lunar surface, as part of preparations for future Moon landings and eventual missions to Mars.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance is due in Hungary to support Prime Minister Viktor Orbán ahead of a closely contested parliamentary vote. The visit highlights Washington’s more direct backing of political allies abroad, as Orbán faces a strong challenge from opposition leader Peter Magyar. The election is expected to shape Hungary’s political direction and its relationship with the European Union.
A preliminary round of Lebanon-Israel talks has concluded in Washington, marking a tentative diplomatic step as regional tensions rise. The development comes as the United States launches a naval blockade of Iranian ports.
Greenland’s prime minister has appointed his predecessor to oversee foreign affairs, as pressure from Washington intensifies over the Arctic island’s future.
Spain’s plan to grant legal status to hundreds of thousands of undocumented migrants is facing early resistance, with immigration officers warning they may strike over a lack of preparation and resources.
The U.S. and Iran could resume peace talks over the next couple of days, U.S. President Donald Trump has said. Talks between Israel and Lebanon were held in Washington yesterday. Fuel prices have dropped below $100 a barrel. U.S. blockade on Iranian ports completes first day.
An Indian healthcare provider plans to invest $50 million in diagnostic and pharmaceutical projects in Uzbekistan’s Namangan region, aiming to expand access to advanced medical services between 2026 and 2028.
France is set to vote on a controversial law targeting what it calls “new forms” of antisemitism, sparking sharp divisions and raising concerns over free speech, criticism of Israel and the protection of Jewish communities.
Hungary’s election winner, Péter Magyar, said on Wednesday his cabinet could be sworn in by mid-May, with Magyar taking office as prime minister, and pledged swift action to unlock billions in suspended European Union funding.
A former NATO chief and senior figure the UK's ruling Labour Party has launched a sharp attack on Prime Minister Keir Starmer, accusing his government of failing to adequately fund defence.
Russia has signalled it is ready to increase energy supplies to China, underscoring deepening ties between the two powers ahead of an expected visit by President Vladimir Putin.
Germany has announced an additional €20 million in humanitarian support for Sudan as Berlin hosts a major international conference aimed at raising more than $1 billion to address one of the world’s most severe and increasingly overlooked crises.
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