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Middle East Updates: Gaza Death Toll Rises, Iran-US Talks Stall, Lebanon Warnings Issued
The Palestinian Health Ministry reported that at least 72,587 people have been killed in Gaza since October 2023, with 811 deaths since an October 11 ceasefire. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with Oman's Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said to discuss regional mediation efforts amid stalled talks with the United States.
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The Palestinian Health Ministry stated that at least 72,587 people have been killed in Gaza since military operations began in October 2023. The ministry added that 811 people have been killed since a ceasefire took effect on October 11.
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Prospects for a diplomatic resolution in the conflict involving the United States and Iran have diminished, with negotiations stalled on day 58 as of April 26, 2026. The United States canceled a planned visit to Islamabad by envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
Iranian officials have emphasized unity in response to comments about internal divisions in Iran. Military, security, judiciary, and government authorities released messages through state media proclaiming unity and obedience to Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi left Islamabad on Saturday without a breakthrough after meetings with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and other officials. Araghchi is expected to return to Islamabad on Sunday evening after visiting Oman, before traveling to Russia, according to Iran's Mehr news agency.
Pakistan continues to offer mediation and barricades in Islamabad have been removed. The conflict has led to higher energy prices, increased inflation, and affected global growth prospects, according to reports.
bin Tariq Al Said met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Muscat on April 26, 2026, to discuss regional developments, mediation efforts, and ways to end conflicts, as reported by Oman News Agency. Al Said emphasized dialogue and diplomacy for peace and stability.
Araghchi expressed Iran's appreciation for Oman's efforts in supporting dialogue amid regional challenges. Oman has hosted talks to de-escalate tensions in the conflict.
