Analysis & Reports

China has been actively engaged in UN peacekeeping operations since April 1990, deploying over 50,000 personnel across 26 missions in more than 20 countries, including Lebanon and South Sudan. Currently, approximately 1,600 Chinese peacekeepers are stationed in various mission areas, performing tasks such as demining, medical rescue, and armed patrols. The commitment reflects China's significant role in international peacekeeping efforts.

Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister announced that Iran will not supply enriched uranium to the United States, emphasizing the country's willingness to address reasonable concerns while rejecting unacceptable demands. Iran aims to finalize a framework agreement before engaging in face-to-face talks. Additionally, a new guideline for the Strait of Hormuz will be developed as part of the negotiations with the U.S.

Israeli Defense Forces established a new 'Yellow Line' in southern Lebanon on April 18, 2023, implementing a 'Gaza model' by conducting operations against armed personnel and erecting barriers to prevent residents from returning home. The new line extends about 10 kilometers into Lebanon, creating a controlled defensive area. Operations were reported in multiple locations, targeting Hezbollah infrastructure despite a ceasefire announced to take effect the previous day.

Hezbollah leader Qassem announced that the group will respond to any violations of the ceasefire agreement with Israel. He emphasized the need for both sides to adhere to the ceasefire and expressed distrust in Israel's commitment. Qassem outlined five demands for a permanent ceasefire, including the withdrawal of Israeli forces from occupied areas and the return of displaced persons.

Israeli Defense Forces conducted airstrikes against armed groups in southern Lebanon on April 18, 2023, claiming these actions are not restricted by ceasefire agreements. The IDF stated that the armed group posed a threat to their soldiers and that the strikes resulted in multiple fatalities. Additionally, the IDF targeted a subterranean shaft used by Hezbollah fighters, asserting that their operations were in self-defense.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has initiated a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz starting on the evening of April 18, citing U.S. violations of ceasefire agreements. All vessels in the Persian Gulf and Oman Sea are prohibited from leaving their anchorages, with any approach to the Strait considered cooperation with the enemy. The Iranian government has stated it will oversee traffic in the Strait until a lasting peace is established.

Iran is monitoring and controlling traffic in the Strait of Hormuz until the war ends, ensuring compliance with ceasefire agreements. The Strait may be conditionally opened under Iranian control, with passage permits required for all vessels. Iran will charge fees for security services and will view any interference as a ceasefire violation. Discussions with the U.S. regarding new proposals are ongoing.

U.S. Space Force troops assisted in military operations against Iran, achieving complex objectives including electronic warfare. They faced indirect fire while redeploying systems in the CENTCOM area. The Space Force has proven its combat credibility, contributing to joint operations globally and enhancing U.S. military capabilities.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps reclosed the Strait of Hormuz on April 18, 2026, after a brief reopening, enforcing strict control over maritime transits and firing on a merchant tanker. The U.S. maintains a naval blockade, having turned back 21 vessels, while diplomatic tensions escalate with conflicting statements from U.S. and Iranian officials regarding negotiations. France and Britain plan a multinational naval mission to ensure navigation safety in the Gulf.

Marcus ChenSat Apr 18 2026Loading...

Iran's navy fired on at least two merchant vessels attempting to cross the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, following a warning that the strait was closed. The incidents occurred between Qeshm and Larak islands, with the vessels turning back without completing their crossing. The Iranian forces, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, have restricted passage in the strait, impacting hundreds of ships and thousands of seafarers waiting to transit the key waterway.

Iran's navy fired on merchant vessels attempting to cross the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, warning them not to pass. The incidents occurred between Qeshm and Larak islands, with at least two ships reporting gunfire. Iran declared the strait closed again, stranding hundreds of ships and 20,000 seafarers in the Gulf.

Iran is reviewing new proposals from the U.S. following a visit by Pakistani military officials. As of April 18, Iran has not yet responded to these proposals.

Iran is determined to control the passage of the Strait of Hormuz until the war is completely over and lasting peace is achieved in the region, according to a statement from the Iranian National Security Council on April 18, 2023.

Israeli Defense Forces conducted strikes against armed personnel in Southern Lebanon on April 18, targeting those deemed a direct threat. The operations involved both air and ground forces and were described as self-defense actions not limited by ceasefire agreements.

Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz again, impacting global oil markets, as the US maintains its naval blockade. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard reasserted control over the strait, while 21 vessels were turned back. Pakistan is mediating between the US and Iran, with potential talks in Islamabad. The ceasefire in Lebanon remains fragile amid ongoing military actions.

Ahmed Al-RashidSat Apr 18 2026Loading...

Iran has not agreed to hold the next round of negotiations with the United States as of April 18, 2023. This statement was reported by the Xinhua News Agency from Tehran.

Iran has restored control over the Strait of Hormuz as of April 18, 2023, citing repeated U.S. violations of agreements. The Iranian Armed Forces are now managing the strait strictly, allowing only a limited number of tankers and merchant ships to pass under controlled conditions. Iran warns that it will maintain this strict control unless the U.S. permits free passage for its vessels.

Iran's military reimposed restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, closing the critical waterway to shipping just hours after a brief reopening. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced that control of the strait returned to strict management by armed forces, citing the ongoing U.S. blockade of Iranian ports as the reason for the closure. This decision has significant implications for global oil supply, as approximately 20% of the world's oil passes through this strait.

Pakistan Army Chief Munir stated the importance of ongoing diplomatic engagement to promote dialogue and peacefully resolve outstanding issues during his visit to Iran on April 18, 2023. The delegation, which included Interior Minister Nakhvi, concluded a three-day visit where they met with senior Iranian officials to discuss regional security and cooperation for peace.