Morning update

Good morning Middle East Eye readers,

Diplomatic and military pressure around Iran is intensifying as Donald Trump gives Tehran a deadline of “two or three days” to reach an agreement, while Iran warns that any return to war would bring “many more surprises”.

Meanwhile, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin are meeting in Beijing for talks expected to focus heavily on the Iran conflict, energy security and shifting global alliances. Fighting and maritime tensions also continue across Lebanon and the Strait of Hormuz.

Here are the latest developments that took place over the past few hours: 

• Trump says Iran has “two or three days” to reach a deal with Washington

• Iran warns future fighting would bring heavier US losses and “many more surprises”

• Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin hold talks in Beijing focused on Iran and energy security

• US Senate approves resolution aimed at limiting Trump’s war powers against Iran

• Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon kill at least nine people and wound dozens

• Israeli forces intercept all 77 ships in Gaza aid flotilla, according to reports

• UN cuts global growth forecast due to Iran war and energy shock concerns

• IAEA chief says situation is of “grave concern” after strike near UAE nuclear facility

• Hezbollah drone attack injures commander of Israeli armoured brigade

• Two Chinese supertankers finally leave the Strait of Hormuz after months-long delay

• Oil prices fall after Trump predicts a quick end to the Iran war