Vance warns Iran not to 'play' America in Islamabad talks

An Iranian hardline cleric said the country’s leader approved a ceasefire while warning forces it would not be upheld and fighting would continue.

Mashhad Friday prayers imam Ahmad Alamolhoda said on Friday, “the leader [Mojtaba Khamenei] allowed the Supreme National Security Council to accept a ceasefire, but also told fighters it is false and the enemy will not adhere to it.”

“The Supreme National Security Council also announced it would accept a ceasefire to counter the US plot, but it ultimately became clear that the ceasefire itself was false and the enemy does not abide by one.”

Iran’s internet blackout has entered its 42nd day, reaching 984 hours, with most users limited to a domestic network, monitoring group NetBlocks said on Friday.

“While the general public are restricted to the local National Information Network, chosen users are whitelisted … to deliver alternative narratives,” NetBlocks said.

More than 7,500 people have been hospitalized with war-related injuries since fighting with Iran began on February 28, Israel’s Health Ministry said.

A total of 7,527 people have been admitted, with 108 still hospitalized, including two in critical condition and 13 in serious condition.

The figures include both soldiers and civilians, with some injuries occurring indirectly, such as while seeking shelter.

More than 7,500 people have been hospitalized with war-related injuries since fighting with Iran began on February 28, Israel’s Health Ministry said.

A total of 7,527 people have been admitted, with 108 still hospitalized, including two in critical condition and 13 in serious condition.

The figures include both soldiers and civilians, with some injuries occurring indirectly, such as while seeking shelter.

Pakistan will issue visas on arrival to delegates and journalists attending the Islamabad Talks 2026, with airlines asked to allow boarding without prior visas, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said on Friday.

“Pakistan welcomes all delegates including journalists from participating nations, traveling in relation to Islamabad Talks 2026,” Dar wrote on X.

“To this end, all airlines are requested to permit boarding to all such individuals without Visa. Immigration authorities in Pakistan will issue them Visa on Arrival,” he added.