The White House indicated on Friday that President Donald Trump is considering new military strikes on Iran. The U.S. aims for Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and comply with a truce agreement made last month, which quickly fell apart.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard reportedly attacked two tankers in the Strait, and Kuwait intercepted drones, highlighting ongoing regional tensions. Hamas announced plans to disarm as part of a ceasefire deal, though significant challenges remain in Gaza.
U.S. and Iran Tensions
The White House expressed frustration, stating Iran signed a memorandum with the U.S. for a truce, quickly breaking it by engaging in violent actions. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized Trump’s resolve to stop Iran’s actions.
Trump asserted military action would continue, indicating it’s about persistence until Iran yields. Iran responded by targeting U.S. forces and oil tankers, causing international concern.
Kuwait and Iran
Kuwait’s Defense Ministry confirmed its forces intercepted Iranian drones, ensuring no casualties occurred. Iran claimed the drone attack retaliated against U.S. strikes, affecting several oil tankers in the process.
Gaza Ceasefire Developments
Hamas agreed to disarm as part of a Trump-announced deal with Israel ceasing strikes and withdrawing from Gaza. The disarming is contingent on establishing a Palestinian state, which Israel opposes.
Friday’s Israeli airstrikes in Gaza underscored the ceasefire’s fragility, with at least one Palestinian killed. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomed the deal but noted challenges in implementing it.
The ceasefire, brokered in October, called for Hamas’s disarmament. However, Israel’s demands and ongoing strikes stalled progress.
Other Regional Developments
- Saudi Arabia proposed a defense alliance with 14 countries to enhance maritime security in the Red Sea.
- The Houthi rebels imposed a blockade on Saudi Arabia, affecting trade routes.
- In Lebanon, Israeli forces destroyed tunnels used by Hezbollah militants, adding tension before negotiations.
The Associated Press continues to track ongoing efforts to resolve the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Additional reporting was done by Madhani from Washington, Becatoros from Athens, and Fatma Khaled from Cairo.
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