Morning update

Good morning Middle East Eye readers,

Diplomacy hangs in the balance as Islamabad remains under lockdown and mixed signals continue over US-Iran talks. Meanwhile, the Hormuz crisis is rippling across global trade, energy markets and regional security.

Here are the latest updates: 

Islamabad locked down as envoys arrive: US officials land for talks, but Iran insists no direct meeting is planned.

Talks in limbo despite mediation push. Tehran says it will only convey its position through Pakistan, adding to uncertainty.

Hormuz standoff escalates further as thousands of sailors remain stranded and maritime tensions disrupt one of the world’s busiest routes.

Global trade routes remain under pressure as Panama Canal fees surge to $4m amid ship rerouting to avoid the Strait of Hormuz.

US tightens economic squeeze on Iran with Washington ruling out oil waivers and freezing $344 m in Iran-linked assets.

Iran signals military strength: Officials say much of its missile capability remains unused despite weeks of conflict.

Israeli attacks continue across Gaza and the West Bank, with fresh strikes reported in Gaza, while arrests intensify in the West Bank.

Regional tensions widen beyond Iran as Hezbollah claims attacks in south Lebanon while Lebanon’s leadership rejects being drawn into regional bargaining.