The military conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran has intensified, with new attacks reported across the region and a critical shipping lane under threat. Former US President Donald Trump stated the war is concluding, while Iran’s president outlined conditions for peace.
Trump: Conflict Ending with “Practically Nothing Left” to Target
In a statement on Wednesday, former President Donald Trump claimed the US-led military campaign against Iran is in its final stages. “We’re just riding free range over that country,” Trump told reporters, adding, “The war will end soon. There’s practically nothing left to target.” He also indicated the US is “going to look very strongly at the straits,” a reference to the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
Iran Sets Conditions for Ceasefire
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian presented three conditions to end hostilities with the US and Israel. In a social media post, he demanded:
- Recognition of Iran’s legitimate rights
- Payment of reparations
- Firm international guarantees against future aggression
Pezeshkian described the conflict as a war ignited by the “Zionist regime and the US” and stated he had shared this position with the leaders of Russia and Pakistan.
Strait of Hormuz Becomes Flashpoint
Maritime security is deteriorating as the conflict spills into key waterways. Recent incidents include:
- Three more vessels hit by projectiles in the Strait of Hormuz.
- A container ship near the UAE struck by an unknown projectile, causing a small fire. The crew was reported safe.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has threatened to block oil shipments from the Gulf unless US and Israeli attacks cease.
Regional Attacks and Responses
The conflict has triggered a wave of attacks and defensive actions across the Middle East:
- Saudi Arabia: Intercepted a drone heading toward the Shaybah oilfield and shot down another approaching an embassy district.
- Kuwait: Its air defences intercepted several drones.
- Lebanon-Israel Border: Hezbollah announced an attack on northern Israel in response to Israeli strikes. An Israeli attack in Lebanon’s Bekaa valley killed eight people.
International Reaction and Market Impact
The International Energy Agency (IEA) has agreed to a record release of strategic oil stocks in response to surging prices caused by the conflict. Diplomatically, Pakistan has urged restraint in calls with Oman’s foreign minister, while the US embassy in Oman lifted its “shelter in place” guidance for the country.
Inside Iran, thousands attended a funeral for “war martyrs” in Tehran’s Enghelab Square, highlighting the domestic toll of the escalating conflict.
