Talks aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz are facing new uncertainty after both Iran and the United States introduced new demands. With the critical waterway still at the centre of efforts to end the five-month war, we look at what is holding up a deal, and what could come next.

In Syria, former President Bashar al-Assad has been sentenced to death in absentia for crimes committed during the country’s nearly 14-year war. His brother Maher and cousin Atef Najib were also handed death sentences. We break down the verdicts and what they mean.

And millions across Europe are looking to the skies today for the continent’s first total solar eclipse in 27 years. Here is everything you need to know, including what time the eclipse begins, where it will be visible and how to watch it safely.