AnewZ Morning Brief - 24 April, 2026

AnewZ Morning Brief - 24 April, 2026
U.S. President Donald Trump with U.S., Israeli and Lebanese officials in the Oval Office, the White House, Washington DC, on 23 April, 2026
Reuters/Kylie Cooper

Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief. Here are the top news stories for the 24th of April, covering the latest developments you need to know.

Israel–Lebanon ceasefire extended by three weeks

U.S. President Donald Trump announced a three-week extension of the Israel–Lebanon ceasefire following talks at the White House involving Israeli and Lebanese envoys. The extension offers a temporary diplomatic window, though clashes and casualties continue on the ground, underlining the fragility of the agreement.

Trump hopes to host leaders of Israel and Lebanon in future talks

Trump said the talks went well and that the United States would work with Lebanon to help it defend itself against Hezbollah which is backed by Iran. However Hezbollah was not part of the discussions. He added that he hoped to host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun in future talks.

U.S. pushes for ‘everlasting’ Iran deal amid ongoing blockade

Trump signalled he is in no rush to reach a deal with Iran, emphasising the need for a long-term agreement while maintaining military pressure in the Strait of Hormuz. Key disputes over nuclear limits, sanctions relief and maritime control remain unresolved, keeping tensions elevated.

U.S.–UK trade tensions rise over digital tax

Washington has warned of “big” tariffs on British goods if London does not scrap its digital services tax targeting major U.S. tech firms. The dispute risks escalating into a broader trade conflict ahead of a high-profile state visit by Charles III to America.

Gaza prepares for first local elections in nearly 20 years

Gaza residents of Deir al-Balah are set to vote in the Strip's first municipal elections since 2006, offering a rare signal of public sentiment during ongoing conflict. While largely symbolic, the vote is seen as an initial step toward restoring local governance in the territory.

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