Pakistan’s Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir arrived in Tehran on Friday as diplomatic efforts intensified to broker a peace agreement between Iran and the United States. However, Iranian officials have moved quickly to temper expectations of any quick resolution.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, quoted by state media, said that the differences between Tehran and Washington in the ongoing mediated talks remain “deep and significant” — a statement that signals the two sides are still far apart on key issues despite continued diplomatic engagement.
Gaza Flotilla Activists Report Sexual Assault
In a deeply disturbing development, at least 15 activists from the Gaza aid flotilla have reported incidents of sexual assault, including rape, at the hands of Israeli forces following their abduction from vessels sailing in international waters. The allegations were made public by the organisers of the Global Sumud Flotilla and have drawn widespread condemnation from human rights groups around the world.
Nine Countries Condemn Israeli Settlements
Nine countries — including Australia, Canada, France and Germany — have issued a joint statement calling on Israel to immediately cease illegal settlement construction in the occupied West Bank and ensure full accountability for settler violence against Palestinian civilians. The statement reflects growing international pressure on Israel over its actions in the occupied territories.
Israeli Strikes Continue in Lebanon
Israel has continued to launch air strikes on southern Lebanon, killing around a dozen people on Friday alone. Among the targets were health facilities and emergency workers — attacks that Lebanon’s Health Ministry and local media have strongly condemned. The strikes come despite ongoing ceasefire discussions and add further tension to an already deeply volatile region.
Reference : https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2026/5/23/iran-war-live-tehran-says-diplomacy-continues-but-no-deal-yet-with-us
