Coverage of events across the Middle East region.
The United States launched a second consecutive day of airstrikes against Iran, with CENTCOM saying the attacks targeted Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian media reported explosions in Chabahar, Bandar Abbas, Bushehr and other areas, while Tehran claimed damage and casualties from the strikes.
U.S. President Donald Trump said the interim ceasefire agreement with Iran is now “over,” accusing Tehran of misrepresenting the understanding reached between the two sides. The U.S.-brokered deal, facilitated by Pakistan, had provided a 60-day period for negotiations toward a permanent agreement. Trump also said Washington has revoked a license allowing Iranian oil sales after renewed tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.
The United States launched a new wave of strikes on southern Iran, targeting air defense systems, missile sites, and drone launch facilities after accusing Tehran of attacking commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. Washington also reimposed restrictions on Iranian oil exports, prompting Iran to condemn the move as a violation of their recent memorandum of understanding.
Three vessels reported attacks near the Strait of Hormuz, including a Qatari LNG carrier hit by a drone strike that caused a fire. Qatar blamed Iran for the incident, while Tehran has not yet commented. The attacks come weeks after Iran agreed to keep the strategic waterway open for commercial shipping.
Two explosions near a hotel in Damascus where French President Emmanuel Macron was staying injured at least 18 people. Macron was not at the location during the blasts and continued his scheduled visit to meet Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. Authorities said explosive devices were found in a vehicle and a garbage container.
Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB claims an Iranian missile strike targeted a Qatari oil tanker near Oman’s coast after it allegedly ignored warnings while passing through the Strait of Hormuz. UKMTO confirmed the incident but said the vessel was hit by an unidentified missile, with no casualties reported.
Hamas has dissolved its de facto governing authority in Gaza after nearly 20 years, paving the way for a U.S.-backed technocratic administration as part of a post-war framework. The move comes amid ongoing ceasefire tensions and continued Israeli military operations in the enclave.
An Israeli drone strike on a vehicle in southern Lebanon killed four civilians, including a school principal, her mother, a domestic worker, and a Syrian laborer. The attack has raised fresh concerns over the fragile U.S.-Iran-backed ceasefire framework covering Lebanon.
Israeli Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir visited troops in southern Lebanon near Beaufort Castle and said Israel would continue operations against Hezbollah, warning that any threats or violations would be met with immediate action.
A cargo vessel reported an attack near Yemen’s Hodeidah port, according to UK maritime authorities, while at least 14 pro-government soldiers were killed in separate clashes with Houthi forces in the country’s west. The incidents come amid escalating tensions in the region involving Houthi threats and counterclaims by Yemeni authorities.
Iran-backed Houthi rebels have threatened to target Saudi airports and other critical infrastructure, warning of retaliation if they say Saudi Arabia continues violating Yemeni airspace. The warning came after the Houthis claimed Saudi fighter jets attempted to prevent an Iranian passenger plane from landing in Sanaa.
National mourning ceremonies continue in Tehran for former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and members of his family killed in an airstrike during the early phase of the U.S. and Israeli war on Iran. Large crowds gathered at the Grand Mosalla Mosque, where the coffins are being displayed for public viewing and the ceremony is being broadcast live on state television. Iranian media say Mojtaba Khamenei will not attend the funeral amid reports citing security concerns.
