The White House hinted at the prospect of President Donald Trump considering further strikes on Iran. The focus is on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and complying with terms of a previously forged truce, which quickly unraveled. Despite no U.S. strikes on Iran overnight, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard claimed to have struck two tankers in the Strait, while Kuwait intercepted drones.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt expressed frustration over Iran’s actions, citing a broken memorandum and attacks on commercial ships. “President Trump is not going to stand by and allow this terrorist behavior to occur,” Leavitt stated. Trump emphasized military action during a Cabinet meeting, signifying ongoing pressure on Iran.
Iran fired drones at Kuwait, targeting military sites. Kuwait reported damage from falling shrapnel but no casualties. Iranian state media cited retaliatory strikes on tankers, causing four to turn back.
Gaza and Hamas Disarmament Agreement
Hamas committed to disarming under a U.S.-brokered deal easing tensions in Gaza. The agreement demands Israel cease strikes and pull out from Gaza. However, Hamas linked disarmament to establishing a Palestinian state, challenging Israel’s current stance.
Recent Israeli airstrikes added complexity to the peace process, resulting in casualties. The UN Secretary-General endorsed the agreement, calling for its implementation without skepticism.
Israel remains silent on the Hamas disarmament deal, part of an earlier ceasefire. The conflict followed Hamas’ October attack on southern Israel, leading to extensive violence in Gaza, with thousands of Palestinian casualties.
Regional Developments
Saudi Arabia proposed a 14-nation defense alliance to enhance maritime security in the Red Sea. The initiative aims to protect navigation routes, especially those affected by the Iran conflict. Yemen’s Houthi rebels blocked Saudi trade routes over an intertwined conflict.
The coalition remains open to any country, except Oman and the UAE. Turkey, Egypt, and Pakistan are part of the alliance.
Houthi rebels dismissed the Saudi initiative, demanding the lifting of trade restrictions for vessel protection. Pro-Houthi protests occurred in Yemen’s capital and other regions.
Israel conducted operations in southern Lebanon, targeting tunnels purportedly used by Hezbollah at Beaufort Castle. The castle, recently added to UNESCO’s list, was seized by Israeli forces. Lebanon condemned the actions, ahead of negotiations in Rome concerning Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon.
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