BRICS talks end without joint statement as divisions over Iran war deepen

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that a lack of trust is the primary impediment to negotiations aimed at ending the war with the U.S. Speaking in New Delhi, Araghchi expressed doubt about American intentions due to contradictory messages and indicated Tehran would welcome diplomatic assistance, particularly from China. He emphasized that progress in negotiations hinges on Washington's readiness for a "fair and balanced deal." U.S. President Donald Trump had previously dismissed Iran's latest proposal. The ongoing conflict continues to threaten regional stability and prolong a global energy crisis, with the Strait of Hormuz remaining a critical point of contention. Araghchi also identified Iran's enriched uranium stockpile as a difficult subject in the talks.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated at a BRICS meeting in New Delhi that Tehran doubts the seriousness of the US regarding potential negotiations to end regional conflict. He confirmed that Iran has received messages from the Trump administration indicating openness to new talks, but distrust persists. Araghchi also indicated that the issue of Iran's enriched material and nuclear program will likely be postponed until later stages of any future discussions. He mentioned that Iran is open to Russia's offer to store its enriched uranium and will consult with Moscow on this matter at an appropriate time. Araghchi also expressed openness to support from other countries, including China, to resolve the conflict.

During a visit to China on May 15, 2026, US President Donald Trump discussed the Strait of Hormuz with Chinese President Xi Jinping. China's leader affirmed the waterway's importance for energy flow, agreeing it "must remain open." This discussion occurred amidst ongoing conflict between Iran and the US-Israel coalition. Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, appealed to BRICS nations to condemn the conflict as a violation of international law, stating Iran would not yield to pressure and that no military solution exists for disputes with Tehran. The US-Israel war on Iran and the potential blockade of the Strait of Hormuz are central to the ongoing tensions.

BRICS foreign ministers concluded their meeting in New Delhi without issuing a joint statement due to divisions over the Iran war. Iran's Foreign Minister urged member states to condemn alleged violations of international law by the United States and Israel. However, differing views among members, particularly concerning Iran's actions and its relations with Gulf neighbors like the UAE, prevented consensus. The UAE representative rejected Iran's claims, accusing them of justifying attacks. Despite the lack of a joint statement on the conflict, BRICS members did agree on calls for global governance reforms and greater representation for Global South countries.

On day 77 of the Iran war, US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed the Strait of Hormuz in Beijing, agreeing it must remain open for global energy supplies. Meanwhile, Iran's Foreign Minister urged BRICS nations in New Delhi to condemn the US-Israel actions as a violation of international law, accusing the UAE of direct involvement in the conflict. Iran also signaled a new strategy for the Strait of Hormuz, allowing ships, including some linked to Chinese companies, to transit if they cooperate with Iranian naval forces. Concurrently, Lebanese and Israeli negotiators are holding a third round of talks in Washington, DC, to end hostilities.

During a BRICS+ meeting in New Delhi, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi urged member nations to condemn alleged violations of international law by the United States and Israel. Araghchi accused the UAE of direct involvement in military operations against Iran, stating Iran is a "victim of illegal expansionism and warmongering." He called on BRICS+ nations to resist "Western hegemony" and the perceived impunity of the US. Iran has launched strikes on US military sites in Gulf States, including the UAE, in response to the US and Israeli actions. The article does not specify the response from other nations attending the meeting.

Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, stated that ships entering the Strait of Hormuz must cooperate with the Iranian navy, following reports of a vessel being seized near the UAE port of Fujairah and taken towards Iranian waters. The UK Maritime Trading Organisation confirmed the seizure by "unauthorised personnel." Araghchi, speaking at a BRICS meeting, described Iran as "invincible" and claimed America's blockade, not Iran, has created obstacles. He urged BRICS nations to condemn alleged US and Israeli violations of international law. The incident occurs amidst heightened regional tensions and Iran's efforts to counter US sanctions.

An Indian-flagged vessel, the Hui Chuan, has reportedly been hijacked by Iran off the coast of Oman. This incident follows an attack on the same vessel on Wednesday, which Indian officials state was a suspected explosion from a drone or missile. The ship, carrying livestock, was en route from Berbera Port in Somalia to Sharjah in the UAE when the fire broke out, forcing the crew to abandon ship before it sank. Omani authorities rescued the 14 Indian crew members and brought them to Diba Port. India's Ministry of External Affairs has condemned the attack as "unacceptable."

At a meeting of BRICS foreign ministers in New Delhi on Thursday, Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, called on member states to condemn what he described as US-Israeli aggression. The Iranian diplomat urged the bloc to take a unified stance against these actions. The gathering provided a platform for Araghchi to articulate Iran's foreign policy concerns and seek support from key emerging economies. The specific nature of the alleged aggression was not detailed in the provided information.

Iran's foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, is set to advocate for Tehran's stance against the US at the Brics foreign ministers' meeting in New Delhi. India, holding the Brics chairmanship, is hosting the gathering of the expanded bloc, which now includes Iran and the UAE. The meeting, taking place on Thursday, will also see Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in attendance. Discussions are expected to focus on critical issues such as Gulf shipping routes and the Strait of Hormuz. The presence of Iran, a nation in conflict with the US and Israel, presents a diplomatic challenge for India as it navigates its relationships within the bloc.

A ship was seized off the coast of the United Arab Emirates near the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday morning, according to the British military. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported the vessel was boarded by unauthorized personnel approximately 38 nautical miles northeast of Fujairah. The ship, identified by the BBC as the Honduras-flagged Hui Chuan, was observed heading towards Iranian territorial waters after the incident. Citing a risk-management company, the BBC also reported that the ship's operators claimed it was functioning as a "floating armory" for vessels to defend against pirates. This seizure follows at least two other ship seizures in the Strait of Hormuz since February, including two by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in April.

A ship anchored off the east coast of the United Arab Emirates has been seized by unauthorized personnel and is reportedly heading towards Iranian territorial waters. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center confirmed the incident, which occurred approximately 38 nautical miles northeast of Fujairah. The seizure took place amid heightened regional tensions, including ongoing discussions between the U.S. and China regarding Iran, and a recent denial by the UAE of a reported secret visit by Israel's Prime Minister. The UKMTO is investigating the incident, and no group has yet claimed responsibility. The specific vessel involved has not been identified.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made a secret visit to the United Arab Emirates for a meeting with President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Netanyahu's office described the trip as a "historic breakthrough" in relations between the two nations, though the exact date was not disclosed. The visit occurred during the US-Israel military campaign against Iran and amid expanding cooperation between Israel and the UAE, particularly on security matters related to Iran. This cooperation includes Israel deploying Iron Dome air defense systems to the UAE to counter potential Iranian attacks. The meeting follows recent Iranian missile and drone attacks on the UAE in May, after which Netanyahu reportedly expressed solidarity and support to Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed. Relations between Israel and the UAE have strengthened since the 2020 Abraham Accords.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu secretly visited the United Arab Emirates during the recent Israeli-US war with Iran, according to his office. The visit, which aimed to further strengthen ties between the two nations, reportedly resulted in a "historic breakthrough." This development follows the recent public acknowledgment of Israel sending Iron Dome air-defense systems and personnel to the UAE. The UAE, which normalized relations with Israel in 2020, has faced Iranian attacks and is seeking to reassure investors. The secret visit underscores the deepening relationship between Israel and the UAE, which has been a point of contention for Iran.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu revealed a secret trip to the United Arab Emirates on March 26, during the height of the Iran war, to meet with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. This meeting, which lasted several hours in Al Ain, is described as a "historic breakthrough" in relations between the two nations. The visit underscores a deepening Middle East alliance, with reports also indicating Mossad director David Barnea made multiple visits to the UAE to coordinate military actions. Israel has shared its Iron Dome air defense system with the UAE, and the UAE is believed to have conducted its own strikes on Iran. This collaboration follows the 2020 Abraham Accords, which normalized relations between Israel and the UAE, and highlights the UAE's independent foreign policy.

President Trump faces difficult choices regarding Iran as peace talks have stalled and tensions are rising. A fragile ceasefire, in place since April 8, is reportedly on "life support," with the US administration hinting at a potential resumption of hostilities. Analysts suggest Trump is caught between escalating the conflict, which is unpopular domestically and could impact upcoming midterm elections, and making concessions to Iran. Iran's demands include an end to the war on all fronts, lifting sanctions, and recognition of its regional influence, which Trump has rejected. The situation leaves the region in an uncertain state of neither peace nor war, with significant geopolitical and economic stakes, particularly concerning oil transit through the Strait of Hormuz.

US Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee, confirmed that Israel has deployed Iron Dome anti-missile batteries and operating personnel to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This deployment, revealed on May 12, 2026, is intended to help the UAE defend against Iranian attacks. Huckabee praised the UAE for its strong relationship with Israel, highlighting it as an example of the benefits of the Abraham Accords. This marks the first known instance of the US-funded Iron Dome system being used outside of Israel. The move comes amid ongoing Iranian missile and drone strikes targeting the UAE and other Gulf nations since late February, following attacks by the US and Israel on Iran. Huckabee also urged Gulf states to align themselves in the conflict with Iran.

Tensions between the US and Iran remain high on day 74 of the war, with Tehran warning of retaliation against any "aggression." US President Donald Trump stated the ceasefire is on "life support" after rejecting Iran's latest response to his peace proposal as "stupid." Iran's parliamentary speaker indicated readiness to retaliate if attacked, promising a surprising response. Stalled negotiations are deepening uncertainty around diplomatic efforts to end the war, which has caused a global energy crisis. Iran's demands include an end to the conflict and the release of frozen assets, while the US objective is to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. Analysts warn of a high likelihood of escalation as both sides appear to be communicating past each other.

U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee announced that Israel has deployed Iron Dome anti-missile batteries and operating personnel to the United Arab Emirates. This deployment is intended to defend the UAE during the ongoing Iran war. Huckabee made these remarks at an event in Tel Aviv, highlighting the strengthening defense ties between Israel and the UAE, both of whom are concerned about Iran. The UAE and Israel established diplomatic relations in 2020 as part of the Abraham Accords. The deployment underscores regional security concerns amid a fragile ceasefire and ongoing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.

On day 72 of the conflict, Iran has not yet responded to a US proposal aimed at ending the war, despite expectations from President Trump. Meanwhile, Israel conducted airstrikes in southern Lebanon, killing at least 24 people across more than 10 towns. The IRGC threatened to target US sites and ships if its tankers are attacked, and warned countries enforcing US sanctions about difficulties in the Strait of Hormuz. Pakistan's military chief reiterated Islamabad's commitment to mediating between the US and Iran, with Qatari officials also engaging in discussions with US representatives regarding regional security and de-escalation efforts. Russia has offered to oversee the transfer and storage of Iran's enriched uranium.

Iran has announced it has responded to a US peace proposal, delivered via Pakistani mediators, concerning a potential framework for talks on its nuclear program and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. This development occurs as a month-old ceasefire shows signs of strain, with drone incursions reported in the airspace of the UAE and Kuwait, and a drone attack causing a fire on a ship off Qatar's coast. Another drone strike targeted a rebel group camp in Iraq. These incidents highlight ongoing tensions in the region, particularly regarding control of the Strait of Hormuz, despite efforts to de-escalate. The US had previously proposed a memorandum of understanding to address these issues, which was a response to an earlier Iranian proposal.

The United States is awaiting Iran's response to proposals aimed at ending over two months of conflict and initiating peace talks. While the US expected a reply within hours on Friday, no movement from Tehran has been observed. The proposals reportedly seek to formally end the current fighting before addressing more complex issues like Iran's nuclear program. Relative calm has been reported around the Strait of Hormuz following recent sporadic incidents. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with the Qatari Prime Minister to discuss regional stability, though Iran was not explicitly mentioned in the subsequent statement.

President Donald Trump will visit Beijing on Wednesday evening to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping, with discussions expected to focus on the ongoing war with Iran. According to White House officials, Trump plans to "apply pressure" on China regarding its purchases of Iranian oil and potential military-related goods. This visit, postponed from earlier this year, comes as the US grapples with the war's consequences. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has accused China of funding Iran by buying a significant portion of its energy. While China has called for an end to the war and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, it has not recognized US sanctions on Iran's oil sector. The trip aims to rebalance the US-China relationship, emphasizing reciprocity and fairness for American economic independence.

Gulf states, alongside the United States, are urging United Nations Security Council action to ensure safety and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. A draft resolution demands Iran halt attacks on shipping, disclose mine locations, and cease imposing illegal tolls. Diplomats from Qatar, Bahrain, and the UAE emphasized the critical importance of the strait for global energy security and economic stability. The resolution also calls for Iran to facilitate UN efforts to establish a humanitarian corridor for aid passage. This push comes amidst ongoing conflict between Iran and the US, which has severely disrupted traffic through the vital waterway and impacted regional energy exports.

Pakistani officials claim the US and Iran are nearing a temporary truce in the Middle East, with a basic interim deal potentially reached this weekend. Tehran is reportedly reviewing a US proposal, though past negotiations for a permanent end to hostilities have stalled. This potential agreement, which could lead to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, has boosted global stocks and lowered oil prices. Pakistan has been a key mediator in indirect talks between Washington and Tehran. Recent escalations, including Iranian missile launches and US military actions against an oil tanker, have occurred amidst these diplomatic efforts. President Trump has expressed optimism about reaching an agreement.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has called on the United Nations to pressure Iran to cease attacks and threats to commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The US, along with Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, and Qatar, has drafted a UN Security Council resolution that could lead to sanctions or authorize force if Iran does not comply. This move comes despite the Trump administration's previously hostile approach to the UN and its preference for unilateral action. The strait's closure has significantly impacted global oil prices and raised fears of an economic crisis. Rubio stated the resolution would test the UN's utility, urging China and Russia not to veto it.

Iran has mocked Donald Trump's "Project Freedom," a plan to open the Strait of Hormuz, after it was abruptly suspended. The operation reportedly failed because Saudi Arabia denied the US military access to its bases and airspace. This decision may have stemmed from Riyadh not being consulted beforehand or following an Iranian attack on oil facilities in Fujairah, which highlighted a perceived lack of US protection for its allies. Despite Trump's claims of a peace deal opportunity, the plan's failure left commercial shipping largely unaffected. Iran is now reviewing a US proposal with 14 points, which it views as an American wishlist, while Iran's own 14-point plan was previously rejected by the US.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, in Beijing. This meeting occurred one week before US President Donald Trump's scheduled visit to China. Araghchi's visit, his first to China since hostilities began, comes amid heightened tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. Key discussion points are expected to include maintaining the ceasefire and reopening the vital waterway, which Iran had effectively closed. China has expressed criticism of both Iran's closure of the strait and the US naval blockade on Iranian ports. The talks aim to address China's potential support for Iran if the strait remains closed.

President Trump expressed optimism about a potential peace deal with Iran, though he acknowledged past difficulties and indicated it was unlikely US envoys would attend a second round of talks in Islamabad. Reports suggested a preliminary 14-point memorandum was being considered to end hostilities, unblock the Strait of Hormuz, lift sanctions, and curb Iran's nuclear program. However, skepticism exists among some US officials and Iranian parliamentarians, who view the reported points as a US "wish list." Experts caution that even an initial agreement might not resolve complex issues, citing the lengthy negotiations required for previous nuclear deals. Trump has previously claimed Iran agreed to terms, which Tehran denied.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with visiting Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Beijing on Wednesday. During their meeting, Wang Yi called for the swift reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. He stated that the international community shares a common concern for restoring normal and safe passage through the vital waterway. China expressed hope that the parties involved would promptly address these strong international calls. The meeting focused on the importance of maintaining open shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran is reportedly considering a US proposal aimed at ending the current conflict, according to an Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson. While Iran reviews the proposal, a parliamentary official warned of a "harsh and regret-inducing response" if the US does not concede. Former President Trump also threatened intensified bombing if a deal isn't reached, while claiming Iran has agreed to forgo nuclear weapons. The US previously stated its offensive operation had concluded after achieving objectives. The conflict has significantly impacted the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil transit route, with a ceasefire in place since early April, though maritime traffic remains limited.

US President Donald Trump announced "very good talks" with Iran, suggesting a deal to end the ongoing war is possible. Trump stated that Iran must suspend its nuclear program and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, warning of renewed bombing if negotiations fail. While Trump expressed optimism about reaching an agreement before his trip to China, Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman downplayed reports of an imminent deal, stating Tehran has not formally responded to the latest US proposal. Diplomatic exchanges are continuing via Pakistan, with sources indicating a memorandum to formally end the conflict is close to agreement. The war, which began on February 28, involves ongoing disputes over Iran's nuclear ambitions and control of the Strait of Hormuz.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the conclusion of "Operation Epic Fury," a US-Israeli military campaign against Iran that began on February 28th, stating its objectives were met and the US now favors peace. Simultaneously, President Donald Trump announced a pause to "Project Freedom," a US military operation escorting ships through the Strait of Hormuz, citing progress in talks with Iran and requests from Pakistan. Experts suggest these developments, particularly the pause in "Project Freedom," could signal a potential end to the conflict. Diplomatic efforts, including talks mediated by Pakistan, are ongoing to secure a comprehensive agreement between the US and Iran, with Iran seeking guarantees of a permanent end to hostilities.

US President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday a temporary pause of "Project Freedom," a US military operation to facilitate ship movement through the Strait of Hormuz. This decision, made at the request of Pakistan and other nations, is intended to allow for the finalization of a potential agreement with Iran. The pause comes amidst heightened tensions in the Gulf, following US military actions against Iranian boats and drone attacks on commercial vessels. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that US offensive operations have concluded but warned Iran must still face consequences for its actions in the strait. Iran has not yet commented on the announcement.

President Trump's foreign policy regarding Iran has seen rapid shifts in recent days. Initially, he suggested Iran had not faced sufficient consequences, then proposed "Project Freedom" as a humanitarian effort to ease tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. However, by Wednesday, Trump announced significant progress towards a complete agreement, pausing Project Freedom to allow for negotiations. These policy changes reflect the administration's struggle with Iran's capabilities, including its ability to disrupt shipping and its nuclear program, within a complex geopolitical situation. Reports indicate a potential memorandum of understanding with Pakistan as a mediator, aiming to end blockades and initiate talks on Iran's nuclear program, sanctions, and frozen assets.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy announced that safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz will be ensured following the US pausing its operation to assist stranded ships. The IRGC stated new procedures are in place, though details were not provided. This development comes after US President Donald Trump halted the "Project Freedom" operation, citing progress in talks with Iran and a request from Pakistan, which is mediating. Trump indicated the US naval blockade of Hormuz remains active and warned of intensified military action if Iran does not agree to terms. Iran's Foreign Ministry confirmed it is reviewing a US proposal.

A month-old ceasefire between the US and Iran is under strain following renewed hostilities. Iran reportedly launched missiles at the United Arab Emirates for the second time in 48 hours, while US naval forces are escorting tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil shipping route. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated the truce remains intact despite increased violence, though Iran's parliament speaker accused the US of breaching the ceasefire. The conflict, triggered by an Israeli strike on Iran's supreme leader, has led to significant economic disruption, with hundreds of ships stranded and oil prices spiking globally. Both nations appear to believe they are nearing victory, contributing to the stalemate.

Despite recent military actions around the Strait of Hormuz, Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth stated that the US-Iran ceasefire remains in effect. The US has launched "Project Freedom" to reopen the strategic waterway, which is separate from the broader US-Israeli assault on Iran. Hegseth indicated that President Trump will decide if the truce ends, suggesting the US may tolerate some Iranian attacks before escalating. The Strait of Hormuz remains largely blocked, with recent hostilities including Iranian attacks on US Navy ships and a South Korean vessel, and US actions downing Iranian boats. Both sides reported casualties, with Iran claiming US attacks killed civilians and the US reporting Iranian strikes injured individuals. The US claims to have established a security "dome" over the strait and is working to encourage ship traffic.

A drone attack from Iran struck a key oil facility in Fujairah, UAE, causing a large fire and injuring three Indian nationals. This incident followed the UAE's interception of missiles launched from Iran and reports of a tanker affiliated with its state-owned oil company being hit in the Strait of Hormuz. The UAE described the attacks as a "dangerous escalation," though an unnamed Iranian official denied targeting the UAE. Simultaneously, the US reported its navy destroyers and merchant ships sailed through the Strait of Hormuz, while Iran claimed to have fired warning shots at a US warship, which Washington denied. Later, the US stated it had intercepted seven Iranian fast boats in the strait, a claim Iran denied. These events occur amidst ongoing tensions and a de facto blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil transit route.

President Donald Trump stated that China has not challenged the US regarding the Iran war, emphasizing his strong relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping ahead of their upcoming summit in Beijing on May 14-15. Trump suggested Xi would not challenge him due to their personal rapport. Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil transit route now effectively closed due to the conflict, are expected to be discussed. Trump highlighted China's reliance on oil from the Strait of Hormuz and offered to redirect Chinese oil shipments to US ports like Texas and Louisiana. This meeting was rescheduled from its original March date following US and Israeli attacks on Iran.

Iran has released a map expanding its declared maritime control beyond the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial chokepoint for global oil trade. This move follows US efforts to reopen the strait, which has been largely closed since a conflict began in late February. The announcement coincides with drone and missile attacks in the UAE, which the UAE attributes to Iran, though Tehran has not officially confirmed responsibility. Analysts suggest Iran views control of the Strait of Hormuz as essential leverage in its ongoing conflict with the US and Israel. This strategic importance means Iran is unlikely to relinquish its influence over the waterway.

The Strait of Hormuz standoff, triggered by escalating tensions between the US and Iran, poses a significant risk of renewed conflict with global economic repercussions. Iran's actions, including threats to close the strait, have already led to shortages of oil, gas, helium, and fertilizer, impacting millions worldwide and potentially causing hunger in vulnerable nations. President Trump's complex and evolving strategy, including attempts to influence oil prices and military escorts through the strait, has left the US in a strategic bind due to Iran's resilience. Iran appears to be targeting the UAE among its Gulf neighbors, prompting the UAE to strengthen its alliances with the US and Israel, with Israel deploying an Iron Dome system and soldiers to the UAE.

A U.S.-backed proposal, "ARAM Express," aims to build a network of overland energy pipelines to bypass the Strait of Hormuz. This initiative, a collaboration between the United States and Gulf partners, seeks to create multiple export routes for oil, gas, and petrochemicals westward to the Red Sea and Mediterranean, and south towards the Arabian Sea. The plan is gaining traction amid escalating tensions with Iran, which has threatened shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint through which approximately one-third of global seaborne oil currently flows. The proposal envisions international participation from European and Asian buyers seeking supply resilience. This effort complements U.S. "Project Freedom," which aims to ensure freedom of navigation in the Strait.

The United Arab Emirates reported intercepting 15 missiles and four drones fired from Iran, marking the first UAE targeting since an April 8 ceasefire. One drone attack caused a fire at a Fujairah petroleum zone, injuring three Indian nationals, while an empty crude oil tanker was also attacked near the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has denied the accusations. Several countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan, condemned the attacks, denouncing them as a threat to regional security and a violation of UAE sovereignty. Germany, the UK, and Canada urged Iran to return to talks.

U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz is spearheading a new UN Security Council resolution aimed at stopping Iran from mining the Strait of Hormuz. This diplomatic effort seeks international backing for the ongoing U.S. maritime operation, Project Freedom, which is designed to secure commercial shipping through the critical global trade route. The resolution intends to hold Iran accountable for violating international law by laying sea mines, demanding they cease this activity, disclose mine locations, and cooperate with the UN to establish humanitarian corridors. This initiative follows recent U.S. military actions to protect vessels threatened by Iranian forces in the strait. The resolution is being developed in cooperation with Bahrain and GCC countries.

The United Arab Emirates reported intercepting ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones originating from Iran. The UAE Ministry of Defence confirmed the interception of three missiles and a fourth falling into the sea, with no immediate reports of casualties. Separately, an Iranian drone reportedly caused a fire at an oil facility in Fujairah, injuring three Indian citizens. These incidents occurred amidst heightened tensions in the Gulf, particularly concerning blockades in the Strait of Hormuz and failed ceasefire extension efforts. While a senior Iranian military official denied plans to target the UAE, the drone attack broke a period of relative calm following a US-Tehran ceasefire.

Tensions between the US and Iran have escalated around the Strait of Hormuz, pushing a fragile ceasefire to the brink. President Trump has threatened Iran with severe retaliation if it attacks US ships, emphasizing America's superior military capabilities. The US military has launched "Project Freedom" to guide vessels through the strait, claiming to have assisted two merchant ships. However, ship-tracking data suggests traffic remains largely suspended, with dozens of vessels from 87 countries reportedly stranded. These developments follow renewed hostilities, including an Iranian attack on the UAE and reports of the US shooting down Iranian boats. A South Korean vessel also experienced an explosion and fire off the UAE coast, and fires were reported on two other ships in the region.