IRGC navy commander killed: Israeli officials have claimed that Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guards naval Alireza Tangsiri has been ‘eliminated' in a strike. Tangsiri was reportedly overseeing Tehran's blockade of Strait of Hormuz, the critical passage responsible for 20% of the world’s energy transit.
Turkish operated tanker hit: A Turkish-operated tanker carrying Russian oil was hit by an explosion early Thursday in Black Sea, near Bosphorus. Authorities believe the strike was carried out at water level rather than by an aerial drone.
Two killed in UAE: A shrapnel from an intercepted missile in Abu Dhabi killed two unidentified people, after the debris fell on them.
Status of talks: The White House confirmed that discussions with Iran are ongoing, despite Tehran not immediately agreeing to the US 15-point plan aimed at ending the conflict. Two administration officials told CNN that the US is working to organize a meeting in Pakistan to explore a potential off-ramp.
Iran's stance: Foreign minister Abbas Araghchi said that while messages have been exchanged via mediators, Washington's recent shift in tone, from demanding Tehran's “unconditional surrender†to proposing talks, signals, in his view, a recognition of failure.
Kharg Island security: Iran has reinforced Kharg Island with additional troops, air defenses, and defensive measures in anticipation of a potential US operation to seize control, according to sources familiar with US intelligence.
South Korea gets Russian energy: Seoul confirmed on Thursday that it has received the US relaxation on some Russian energy import products, amid the ongoing global energy fears.
A friendly Hormuz pass: Iran has clarified that only friendly nations will be allowed a pass to the strategic Strait of Hormuz, including countries like India, Pakistan, China, Russia, and Iraq.
Congressional concerns: Members of the US house armed services Committee expressed dissatisfaction with a briefing from Trump administration officials on the war's objectives and timeline. The frustration reflects growing unease within the president's own party as lawmakers prepare for a supplemental funding request to cover ongoing operations and replenish munitions.
