President Trump publicly escalated his stance on Iran, writing on Truth Social that “There are no talks or conversations with Iran” and asserting, “The U.S. Naval blockade remains in full force and effect.” The report adds that he posted a map depicting the Strait of Hormuz as “new U.S. territory.”
Hormuz Flashpoint and Reported Strikes
As negotiations stalled, the report says Iran continued testing U.S. military restraint. It cites a vessel hit on Tuesday that left one person dead. The United Arab Emirates is quoted as claiming it detected two missiles. In Yemen, the report states that Iranian-backed Houthi militants used drones to strike a refinery in Saudi Arabia.
Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi is quoted as saying, “We do not want a ceasefire, we want an end to the war.”
Gaza: IDF Strike and Disarmament Push
In Gaza, the Israel Defense Forces announced it struck a meeting of Hamas commanders and other operatives planning attacks on Israeli troops, saying six were killed. According to the IDF, measures were taken to minimize harm to civilians.
While in Israel, U.S. envoy Jared Kushner told Fox News that the president is waiting for the right deal. He said if Iran “is willing to finish the deal that they’ve been discussing with us to give up their ability to create a nuclear weapon,” the president would be open to it, but “right now they’re not showing any interest in doing something that makes sense for us.” On Gaza, Kushner pressed for a roadmap requiring Hamas to disarm and added, “it’s gonna happen based on actions and steps.”
Syria: UN Inspectors’ Excavation Report
The report states that U.N. nuclear inspectors are excavating a site in Syria linked to the former Assad government’s suspected nuclear program. No further details or independent confirmation are provided in the report.
West Bank Case and Embassy Response
Regarding Judea and Samaria, the report attributes to U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee remarks about embassy involvement after the home of a Palestinian-American citizen was besieged in an incident involving Israeli settlers. He is quoted saying it is the embassy’s responsibility to engage and call such actions “unacceptable behavior.” He described those involved as “unsettlers,” which he said represent a small minority, adding, “They are hurting Israel…its reputation, and…the Jewish people.”
