LIVEUS weighs pressure and negotiation as Hormuz corridor deal inches forwardLast updated: July 26, 2026 | 06:51Donald TrumpUS-Israel-Iran warStrait of HormuzCeasefire push at Strait of Hormuz tests shift from strikes to talksThe US has reportedly paused airstrikes on Iran after nearly two weeks of military action, with no new bombings reported overnight Saturday following 13 consecutive nights of strikes. The apparent lull comes as Oman-Iran talks on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and nearby territorial waterways make progress. Meanwhile, tensions continue to spread across the region, with Saudi Arabia and Houthi rebels exchanging fresh strikes, raising concerns over a new front in the conflict. The US military also said it disabled a commercial vessel accused of attempting to evade its blockade of Iranian ports. Follow the latest developments here.HighlightsSHOW MORE06:51 AM, 26 July 2026UK updates Saudi Arabia travel advice
The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has updated its travel advice for Saudi Arabia, warning travellers about regional security risks, including threats linked to the Saudi-Yemen border and attacks by Houthi rebels.The FCDO advises against all travel within 10km of the Saudi-Yemen border and against all but essential travel to areas between 10km and 80km from the border.Travellers are warned that insurance coverage may become invalid if they travel against official advice. In the event of a missile or drone attack, the FCDO recommends staying indoors in a secure shelter, monitoring local media and following instructions from Saudi authorities.The advisory also highlights restrictions on travel to military zones and border areas, with the Saudi Tourism Authority banning tourist trips to such locations.The UK government said its latest guidance, updated on July 25, aims to help travellers make informed decisions about risks while visiting Saudi Arabia.06:21 AM, 26 July 2026Strait of Hormuz talks show progress: ReportDiplomatic talks between Oman and Iran on reopening the Strait of Hormuz are making progress, though more time is needed to reach a final agreement, regional sources told CBS News.Omani officials travelled to Tehran on Friday for discussions on restoring access through the strategic waterway and nearby territorial waters. Sources said the talks are moving in a positive direction but remain sensitive.The diplomatic push coincided with President Donald Trump’s decision to pause US airstrikes on Iran after 13 consecutive nights of military action. Regional officials said the pause was intended to prevent the strikes from disrupting the ongoing negotiations.The US is closely monitoring the Oman-Iran talks. Trump said Iran would “love to make a deal” but added that he did not believe Tehran was ready yet, while saying he remained open to negotiations.06:21 AM, 26 July 2026Airstrikes pause as US-Iran talks move forwardThe US has paused airstrikes on Iran after nearly two weeks of escalating attacks, while diplomatic efforts continue to prevent a wider conflict. President Donald Trump has kept both options open — threatening further strikes while saying negotiations are moving forward.A key issue in talks is the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil shipping route disrupted during the conflict, pushing energy prices higher. Mediators say Washington and Tehran are exploring ways to restore a temporary ceasefire and ease restrictions on commercial shipping.Tensions remain high, with Israel’s planned visit to Washington adding uncertainty and the US continuing naval operations against Iranian ports. Analysts say the pause could mark a shift towards diplomacy or a temporary break before further escalation.06:21 AM, 26 July 2026US Fed expected to hold rates steady amid inflation concerns The US Federal Reserve is expected to keep interest rates unchanged at 3.50% to 3.75% during its upcoming policy meeting, as policymakers weigh persistent inflation and rising energy prices linked to escalating US-Iran tensions.The meeting will be the second under new Fed Chair Kevin Warsh, who was appointed by President Donald Trump amid pressure from the White House for lower borrowing costs.US inflation eased to 3.5% annually last month but remains above the Fed’s 2% target. Recent Middle East tensions have pushed oil prices above $100 a barrel, raising concerns that higher energy costs could fuel inflation again.Fed officials have warned they may need to tighten monetary policy if inflation remains elevated, with Governor Chris Waller saying the central bank must avoid a repeat of the 2021-22 inflation surge.Get updated faster and for FREE: Download the Gulf News app now - simply click here.06:21 AM, 26 July 2026US confirms identity of soldier killed in Iranian strikes in Jordan
