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U.S. Threatens Harsher Economic Pressure on Iran as Mediators Rush to Secure Second Ceasefire Talks

  A woman walks past a digital screen displaying news of US-Iran peace talks along a road in Islamabad on April 10, 2026 The United States has warned it will step up economic pressure on Iran while mediators race to arrange a second round of ceasefire talks before the fragile truce expires on April 22, 2026 — a standoff that risks higher oil prices, tighter global markets, and direct costs for Canadian households and investors.   Background and diplomatic timeline A two‑week ceasefire that paused nearly seven weeks of fighting was brokered to create a narrow diplomatic window for talks between Washington and Tehran. The first round of face‑to‑face negotiations in Islamabad lasted more than 20 hours but ended without an agreement, leaving the truce set to expire on April 22, 2026 unless mediators secure a follow‑up session.  Mediators led by Pakistan, with active roles from Turkey, Egypt and other regional actors, have been shuttling between capitals to bridge the remaini...
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Sectarian Tensions Erupt Again in Sweida as Israel Steps Up Military Pressure

 

Clashes have reignited in the southern Syrian city of Sweida, a predominantly Druze region, following the collapse of a brief ceasefire between Syrian government forces and local Druze fighters. The renewed violence has intensified sectarian tensions and drawn international attention, particularly from Israel, which has vowed to continue military strikes in defense of the Druze minority.

The Syrian Defence Ministry had announced a ceasefire late Tuesday, but by early Wednesday, heavy artillery and mortar fire resumed across Sweida and nearby villages. Government forces reportedly clashed with Druze militias after initially being deployed to quell fighting between Druze and Bedouin armed groups.

Israel, citing its commitment to protect the Druze community, launched airstrikes on Syrian military positions in Sweida and Damascus. Defense Minister Israel Katz warned that further strikes would follow unless Syrian forces withdrew from Druze areas. “Leave the Druze alone,” Katz stated, emphasizing Israel’s alliance with its own Druze citizens and its intent to enforce a demilitarized buffer near the border.

The death toll has climbed sharply, with reports indicating nearly 250 fatalities since the violence erupted on Sunday. Civilians have accused government troops of looting and executing residents, further inflaming local anger.

As the situation deteriorates, international actors including the United States have called for calm and dialogue. However, with sectarian divisions deepening and regional powers asserting influence, Sweida remains a flashpoint in Syria’s fragile post-war landscape.

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