Pakistan’s interior minister is in Tehran as the US downs more Iranian drones over Hormuz

Pakistan's interior minister is in Tehran to deliver a message from Pakistan's army chief to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, in an effort to restart negotiations between Iran and the U.S. This visit occurs as the U.S. military reported shooting down two Iranian drones over the Strait of Hormuz that threatened maritime traffic. The U.S. is urging Iran to reach a deal to end the ongoing Middle East war, which has impacted the global economy. Meanwhile, fighting between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon continues despite a U.S.-brokered ceasefire extension, with Israel striking Hezbollah sites and Hezbollah acknowledging attacks on Israeli troops. The U.S. military also reported shooting down Iranian missiles and drones targeting the Strait of Hormuz and Gulf allies, responding by striking Iranian radar sites.

Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited Tehran to deliver a "special letter" to Iran's Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei. This visit is part of Pakistan's diplomatic efforts to mediate an end to the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran, which has entered its 100th day. Naqvi met with his Iranian counterpart to discuss regional developments and internal security. The visit occurs amidst heightened tensions in the Gulf, with US forces intercepting Iranian drones and subsequently striking Iranian radar sites. These actions have drawn condemnation from Gulf nations, including Bahrain and Kuwait, who warn of dangerous escalation. Despite ongoing exchanges, negotiations for a peace deal remain at a deadlock.

On the 100th day of the conflict, tensions escalated as the US shot down two Iranian drones over the Strait of Hormuz, which the US Central Command stated threatened international maritime traffic. Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the US actions as violations and hostile behavior. In response, Iran reportedly fired missiles at US allies Bahrain and Kuwait. Meanwhile, Pakistan's Interior Minister arrived in Tehran for diplomatic talks. The US plans to redirect Iranian assets to Gulf states for rebuilding, while Iran claims a peace deal depends on the release of $24 billion in frozen Iranian assets. In a separate development, Israel continued attacks in Lebanon, killing Lebanese army personnel.

US Central Command reported intercepting seven Iranian ballistic missiles fired towards Kuwait and Bahrain, with six being intercepted and the seventh missing its target. This occurred hours after US forces downed four Iranian drones aimed at the Strait of Hormuz. In response, US forces targeted Iranian coastal surveillance radar sites. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed its attacks were retaliation for US strikes and stated it fired at four tankers attempting to transit the waterway. These exchanges happen amid stalled indirect negotiations between the US and Iran over sanctions relief, frozen assets, and the Strait of Hormuz.

The United States military reported shooting down four Iranian drones near the Strait of Hormuz, citing an immediate threat to maritime traffic. Subsequently, US forces struck Iranian coastal surveillance radar sites in southern Iran to counter further attacks. Iran retaliated by firing ballistic missiles at two US air bases in Kuwait and US Navy facilities in Bahrain. Initial assessments indicated that six of the seven Iranian missiles were intercepted, with one failing to reach its target. These exchanges follow a recent escalation that threatened a ceasefire established in April, after Iranian drone strikes on Kuwait's international airport resulted in one death and over 60 injuries, though Iran denied responsibility.

The US military reported shooting down four Iranian drones near the Strait of Hormuz, stating they posed an immediate threat to regional maritime traffic. In response, the US struck coastal surveillance radar sites in Iran. This action is part of a blockade on Iranian ports, implemented due to Iran's control over the Strait, a vital shipping route for oil and natural gas, which has caused energy prices to rise. These exchanges represent the latest in escalating tensions that jeopardize efforts to extend a fragile ceasefire and reach a peace deal. Earlier this week, Iranian drones damaged a passenger terminal in Kuwait, causing casualties. Despite these events, President Trump expressed optimism about the situation with Iran.

US forces conducted strikes on Iranian coastal radar sites on Saturday following the shootdown of four Iranian drones. The US military stated that the drones were launched towards the Strait of Hormuz and were believed to be targeting regional maritime traffic. In response, US Central Command announced that American forces struck Iranian surveillance sites located in Goruk and on Qeshm Island, both situated on the Strait of Hormuz. This incident represents a recent escalation in tensions between the two nations.

The U.S. military announced it shot down four Iranian drones launched toward the Strait of Hormuz, citing an immediate threat to maritime traffic. In response, U.S. Central Command struck Iranian coastal surveillance radar sites to defend against further attacks. This action escalates tensions and risks a fragile ceasefire, as the Trump administration increases pressure on Iran. The incident follows recent Iranian drone damage to a Kuwait airport terminal. President Trump expressed confidence in resolving the situation with Iran, stating it would be resolved "very quickly" through either negotiation or a "very tough way." The U.S. also recently boarded a sanctioned oil tanker linked to Iran and imposed new sanctions on Iran's energy sector.

Iran fired missiles at Kuwait and Bahrain, causing damage and injuries, while the US struck Iran's Qeshm Island and downed Iranian drones. This escalation occurred despite a previous ceasefire, raising fears of renewed conflict. The US claims Iranian missiles targeting Kuwait fell short, while Iran alleges US forces attacked an oil tanker, prompting their response. Iran condemned the US strike on Qeshm as a ceasefire violation and warned of retaliation for future attacks. Meanwhile, Secretary of State Rubio declared the "war is over" but linked sanctions relief to Iran abandoning nuclear activity, while Iran seeks significant economic concessions and warns of confrontation if Israeli attacks on Lebanon continue.

Kuwait suspended commercial flights after an Iranian drone attack severely damaged its international airport and injured individuals. This incident occurred hours after Iran and the United States exchanged missile strikes. The U.S. military stated it struck an Iranian military facility in retaliation for Iranian missiles fired at Kuwait and Bahrain, while Bahrain reported intercepting Iranian missiles and drones. Iran's Revolutionary Guard claimed to have targeted U.S. military assets in response to a U.S. missile strike. Reports also emerged of Iran halting communication with ceasefire mediators, a claim disputed by U.S. President Donald Trump. The escalating regional tensions are increasingly linked to Israel's war in Lebanon.

US forces fired a Hellfire missile to disable the engine room of the Botswana-flagged tanker M/T Lexie on Tuesday as it attempted to reach Iran through international waters near Kharg Island. This action occurred amid an ongoing standoff in the Strait of Hormuz and stalled ceasefire negotiations between Washington and Tehran. The US military's Central Command stated the tanker ignored repeated warnings over 24 hours before its engine room was disabled. This is the sixth ship disabled by US forces since their blockade of Iran began on April 13th. The incident coincides with Kuwait reporting missile and drone attacks and a lack of political progress in resolving the Middle East crisis, despite US claims of a potential deal with Tehran.

US forces conducted "self-defence" strikes on Iran's Qeshm Island after Iranian missiles and drones targeted civilian vessels, Kuwait, and Bahrain. Kuwait's military reported intercepting incoming threats, while Bahrain activated warning sirens. These events occurred on June 3, 2026. Earlier, Iranian media reported explosions near Qeshm Island. Separately, US President Donald Trump reportedly criticized Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu over Israel's threat to strike Beirut suburbs.

Iran's Revolutionary Guard stated on Monday that it targeted a US base in response to US strikes on Iranian military sites over the weekend. The US military's Central Command (Centcom) reported striking Iranian air defenses, a control station, and drones after Iran shot down a US MQ-1 drone over international waters. Missile and drone attacks were also reported in Kuwait, home to a US base. These exchanges occur amid ongoing negotiations to end a three-month war, which has significantly impacted global energy prices due to Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The US aims to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons, while Iran denies such intentions and seeks the lifting of sanctions.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched a retaliatory strike on a US base in Kuwait, claiming it was used for an attack on an Iranian communications tower. Kuwaiti air defense systems intercepted missiles and drones amid sirens across the country, with Kuwait's Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemning the attacks. This exchange follows US strikes on Iran, which CENTCOM stated were in response to Iranian actions, including the shootdown of a US drone. These events occur amidst ongoing indirect negotiations between the US and Iran to formalize a fragile ceasefire, with reports of potential memorandum of understanding changes proposed by President Trump. Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson cited mistrust and contradictory US positions as reasons for the prolonged negotiations.

The United States bombed Iranian radar and drone control sites in Iran after Tehran shot down a U.S. MQ-1 Predator drone over international waters. Iran acknowledged launching a retaliatory strike, and Kuwait reported intercepting incoming drone and missile fire. These actions reflect the ongoing fragility of a ceasefire in the Iran war, despite ongoing negotiations. The U.S. military stated its strikes were a response to aggressive Iranian actions and that no American troops were harmed. Iran's Revolutionary Guard claimed U.S. forces targeted a telecommunications tower, and stated they responded with an attack, likely referring to the incident in Kuwait. The conflict continues to disrupt global energy supplies through the Strait of Hormuz.

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) conducted "self-defense strikes" against Iran over the weekend. These strikes targeted Iranian radar and command and control sites for drones in Goruk and Qeshm Island. CENTCOM stated the actions were in response to aggressive Iranian actions, including the shootdown of a U.S. MQ-1 drone over international waters. U.S. fighter aircraft eliminated Iranian air defenses, a ground control station, and two attack drones that threatened regional shipping. No American service members were harmed, and CENTCOM indicated it will continue to protect U.S. assets and interests against unwarranted Iranian aggression.

The US and Iran exchanged air strikes over the weekend near the Strait of Hormuz. The US Central Command stated it conducted "self-defense strikes" on Iranian radar and drone command and control sites in Goruk and on Qeshm Island. These actions were in response to what the US described as "aggressive Iranian actions," including the shootdown of a US MQ-1 drone over international waters. The US reported its strikes targeted Iranian military air defenses, a ground control station, and two drones that posed a threat to regional shipping, with no American casualties. In retaliation, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed to have targeted an air base used by US forces, stating its response would differ if US aggression continued.

The US stated it conducted strikes on Iranian military sites over the weekend. In response, Iran's Revolutionary Guards announced on Monday they targeted a US base. These actions represent the latest in a series of exchanges occurring amidst ongoing negotiations to end a three-month war. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) explained the strikes on Iran's Gulf coast were a reaction to "aggressive Iranian actions," specifically mentioning the shootdown of a US MQ-1 drone over international waters. CENTCOM further stated that US fighter aircraft responded by neutralizing Iranian air defenses, a ground control station, and two attack drones that threatened regional shipping. CENTCOM affirmed its commitment to protecting US assets and interests during the current ceasefire.

President Donald Trump has reportedly requested edits to a proposed US-Iran deal aimed at ending recent fighting. According to US media, these changes specifically concern the Strait of Hormuz and the removal of highly enriched uranium. The White House has not commented on these reports. Iran's chief negotiator stated that Tehran would only agree to a deal if its rights are fully secured. The proposed framework, which has been under negotiation, includes a 60-day cessation of violence, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and a plan to resume nuclear program negotiations. If diplomacy advances, the deal could also involve sanctions relief for Iran, potentially unfreezing billions in assets.

Iran's chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, stated on Sunday that the United States cannot be trusted and that Iran will not accept any deal that does not fully protect its rights. This declaration follows reports that US President Donald Trump has submitted a more stringent peace proposal to Iran. These developments highlight the significant disagreements that remain between the two parties. Any modifications to the current draft could postpone an agreement aimed at formally ending the Middle East war and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The ongoing negotiations have been characterized by intense rhetoric and sporadic violence.

At the recent Shangri-La Dialogue, discussions centered on defense spending and regional commitment to peace. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth urged allies to increase their defense contributions, proposing a 3.5% of GDP target. Analysts noted that most ASEAN countries, with the exception of Singapore, would find this spending level difficult to commit to. Hegseth warned that allies unwilling to increase their defense efforts would experience a "clear shift" in U.S. engagement. The dialogue highlighted a divergence in defense capabilities and willingness to contribute to collective security among Asian nations.

President Donald Trump has reportedly toughened the terms of a proposed agreement aimed at ending the nearly three-month war with Iran. US officials indicate that Iran may take several days to respond to these revised terms, which were sent back for consideration. While the exact nature of the changes is unclear, reports suggest Trump wants to reinforce key points, potentially including Iran's nuclear material and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The US is willing to wait for Iran's response, with hopes for a decision within the week. The war began after the US and Israel attacked Iran on February 28.

At the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, American allies emphasized the importance of global unity in addressing escalating, transnational threats. Japan's Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi stated that division weakens deterrence, while unity strengthens it, warning that gaps among allies would be exploited by adversaries. This call for cooperation comes amidst U.S. criticism of allies, including NATO, for insufficient defense spending. Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles and Netherlands Defense Minister Dilan Yesilgöz-Zegerius echoed the sentiment that regional tensions have global implications and require collective responses to maintain stability and a rules-based international order.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is delivering a keynote speech at the annual Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, a forum for discussing regional security challenges. His address is anticipated to signal US policy direction in the Indo-Pacific following President Trump's recent summit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. Hegseth is expected to cover US commitments in the Asia-Pacific, including issues related to the South China Sea and Taiwan, as well as AI rivalry and the US conflict with Iran. The event, attended by defense ministers, military chiefs, and diplomats from various nations, is the 23rd edition and will provide insights into American alliances and regional security. Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun is notably absent for the second consecutive year.

At the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth outlined America's geopolitical goals, focusing on China's military buildup and its implications for regional stability. Hegseth expressed alarm over China's growing military presence and urged US allies to increase their defense spending to counter this power. Regarding Taiwan, he stated there was "no change in our status," but acknowledged that President Trump would make the final decision on a potential $14 billion arms sale. Hegseth also emphasized the need for allies to contribute more to defense, stating, "The era of the United States subsidizing the defense of wealthy nations is over." He also addressed Iran, warning of renewed US attacks if a satisfactory deal to end the ongoing war is not reached.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, reaffirmed America's commitment to Pacific security while moderating his previous strong warnings about China. Hegseth stated that achieving a favorable balance of power in the Pacific is a U.S. priority, emphasizing the region's importance to American security and prosperity. This shift in tone follows President Trump's recent meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, where they agreed to build a constructive relationship. Despite the softer rhetoric, Hegseth stressed that the U.S. will not allow China to dominate the Indo-Pacific, acknowledging concerns about China's military buildup. He also reiterated the U.S. expectation for allies to increase defense spending, praising Asian partners for their contributions.

The U.S. military disabled the Gambia-flagged bulk carrier Lian Star in the Gulf of Oman for attempting to breach an American blockade of Iranian ports. A U.S. official stated the ship ignored warnings before being disabled by U.S. aircraft. This marks the sixth vessel stopped by the U.S. since implementing the blockade on April 17 in response to Iran closing the Strait of Hormuz. A fragile ceasefire has been in place since April 7, and the world awaits a decision on extending it while new talks on Iran's nuclear program are considered. The blockade aims to limit Iran's shipments and weaken its economy, impacting global trade.

On day 92 of the Iran conflict, prospects for a US-Iran agreement remain uncertain as President Trump prepares to make a "final determination" on a deal. Iranian officials maintain that negotiations are ongoing but no final agreement has been reached, emphasizing that Tehran will judge any potential easing of restrictions by actions, not words, and will not act unless Washington does first. Meanwhile, fighting continues in the region, with Israeli forces reportedly advancing beyond Lebanon's Litani River. US Central Command stated its forces are vigilant across the region, and US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth urged allies to increase defense spending while reiterating the US commitment to preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. The US Department of Defense also described military-to-military talks between Israeli and Lebanese delegations in Washington as "productive."

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore that the United States is "more than capable" of resuming hostilities with Iran, citing sufficient weapon stockpiles. This declaration came as negotiations for a peace deal to end the conflict, which has impacted the global economy, failed to yield an agreement. Hegseth also expressed "rightful alarm" regarding China's military buildup but emphasized the US does not seek "needless confrontation" in Asia, aiming instead for a stable equilibrium. The US seeks respectful engagement with Beijing, though China's defense minister was absent from the summit.

President Trump claimed he was close to approving a peace deal with Iran that would include major concessions, such as opening the Strait of Hormuz and eliminating Iran's nuclear program. However, top Iranian officials denied that a final agreement had been reached, stating that message exchanges were ongoing but no final understanding was in place. Trump outlined his demands on social media, including Iran never possessing nuclear weapons, allowing toll-free passage through the Strait of Hormuz, and the US destroying enriched uranium. Iranian news agencies reported that Trump's statements contained a mix of truth and lies, and that the nuclear issue and opening of the Strait of Hormuz without fees were not part of any agreement. Iranian officials indicated defiance and readiness for further conflict if talks failed.

President Donald Trump is reportedly in the White House Situation Room to make a "final determination" regarding a deal with Iran. The article states that Trump himself made this announcement. The purpose of his presence in the Situation Room is to finalize a decision on this specific agreement. No further details about the nature of the deal or the potential outcomes are provided in the given content.

President Donald Trump is reportedly making a "final determination" on a potential deal with Iran to extend a ceasefire and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. However, deep mistrust persists between Washington and Tehran, with Iran's foreign ministry stating no final agreement has been reached. Iran's top negotiator emphasized that Tehran will judge any deal by actions, not words. Trump outlined several US conditions for an agreement, including Iran never possessing nuclear weapons, the Strait of Hormuz remaining open and toll-free, and the removal of mines. He also indicated that ships currently in the Strait due to a US naval blockade could begin to depart, with no money exchanged until further notice. Uncertainty surrounds the details of a potential memorandum of understanding.

US President Donald Trump met with his advisers in the White House Situation Room to make a "final determination" on an agreement with Iran. This meeting follows confirmation from US officials that a framework for a deal, a memorandum of understanding, has been agreed upon by both nations, pending approval from their respective leaderships. The reported deal would extend a ceasefire for 60 days and initiate talks regarding Iran's nuclear program. Trump stated that Iran must agree to never possess nuclear weapons, reopen the Strait of Hormuz for unrestricted shipping, and destroy any mines in the waterway. He also indicated a willingness to lift the US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and for Iran to allow the removal and destruction of its enriched uranium.

The U.S. and Iran have reached a tentative agreement to extend their ceasefire for 60 days, with further talks planned on Iran's nuclear program. U.S. Vice President JD Vance stated that the deal would address Iran's highly enriched uranium stockpile, though specific details are still being negotiated. However, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf expressed distrust in negotiations, asserting that concessions are gained through military strength rather than talks. President Trump is meeting with advisors to finalize a decision on the deal, which he stated must include Iran's commitment to never possess nuclear weapons, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and the removal of sea mines. The tentative agreement also reportedly includes the gradual lifting of U.S. naval blockades on Iranian ports and relaxation of sanctions.

The US military conducted strikes on a military site in Bandar Abbas, Iran, and shot down four Iranian attack drones near the Strait of Hormuz. US Central Command (Centcom) stated the strikes targeted an Iranian ground control station preparing to launch a fifth drone. These actions occurred amid a fragile ceasefire and ongoing negotiations to end a conflict impacting the Strait of Hormuz and global energy prices. Centcom described the strikes as defensive and intended to maintain the ceasefire. President Trump commented that Iran is "negotiating on fumes" and that his war strategy would not be affected by upcoming elections.

Kuwait announced it was targeted by a missile and drone attack on Thursday, adding to the instability of the Iran war's ceasefire. Iran later stated it launched an attack in the region, though the specific target was not disclosed. This incident follows recent U.S. strikes in Iran, including defensive actions against missile launch sites and drones near the Strait of Hormuz. Negotiations between the U.S. and Iran to end the war are ongoing, with key issues including reopening the Strait of Hormuz, Iran's uranium stockpile, and the lifting of sanctions. Kuwait, a U.S. ally, has been targeted by Iran and Iranian-backed militias in the past. Iran's Revolutionary Guard acknowledged an attack near Bandar Abbas International Airport and claimed a retaliatory strike on an air base, but it is unclear if this is related to the Kuwaiti announcement.

During a cabinet meeting, President Trump threatened to "blow up" Oman, a US ally, if it did not "behave" regarding the Strait of Hormuz. This statement followed reports of discussions between Iran and Oman about jointly charging tolls for ships passing through the waterway. Trump asserted the strait would remain open to everyone and that Oman would comply. The article also reports on ongoing negotiations for a ceasefire, US strikes on Iranian targets, and retaliatory attacks. In Iran, internet restrictions were partially lifted, revealing public anger over rising food prices. The conflict has displaced over a million people in Lebanon, with thousands killed on both sides. Separately, the UN warned of a record hot year by 2030 due to intensifying climate change.

The US Treasury has warned Oman that it will impose sanctions if the country facilitates Iran's establishment of a tolling system in the Strait of Hormuz. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that Washington will "aggressively target" any actors involved in such efforts and that "willing partners will be penalized." This warning follows recent threats from President Trump against Oman, a country known for its neutrality and mediation. The US stance comes after Iran suggested joint management of the Strait with Oman and subsequently closed the waterway, claiming sovereignty. The article notes that it is unusual for the US to threaten sanctions against a close ally and that the driving force behind Washington's posture is unclear.

President Donald Trump has shared a draft peace agreement for the war with Iran with allies, including Israel, as both sides attempt to prevent ceasefire breaches from derailing negotiations. The draft proposes opening the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping within 30 days, lifting the US blockade of Iranian ports, and granting Iran access to $12 billion in frozen assets. Negotiations would then commence on Iran's nuclear program, including uranium enrichment and IAEA supervision, with Iran renouncing nuclear weapons. This move comes amid ongoing skirmishes, including Iran targeting a US airbase in Kuwait and Washington striking an Iranian drone operation. Pakistan's foreign minister is traveling to Washington to meet his US counterpart to expedite talks. The agreement's scope, particularly regarding Iran's nuclear commitments and a permanent ceasefire including Lebanon, is reportedly unpalatable for Israel.

Oil prices surged following new US attacks on Iran, specifically targeting a military site in Bandar Abbas and downing four Iranian drones near the Strait of Hormuz. This escalation occurred despite an ongoing ceasefire and peace talks between Tehran and Washington aimed at resolving a conflict that has disrupted the crucial Strait of Hormuz shipping route. The attacks caused global oil benchmarks to rise significantly, with Brent crude increasing by 3.75% and US crude by 4%. The Strait of Hormuz, through which approximately one-fifth of global oil and LNG supplies normally pass, has been effectively closed since the conflict began, leading to volatile energy prices. This recent development follows Iran's threats to attack vessels using the route after initial US and Israeli airstrikes on February 28th.

Despite US bombings of Iranian targets, Iran remains engaged in peace talks mediated by Pakistan and Qatar. Iran's foreign ministry condemned the attacks, which targeted missile launchers and mine-laying efforts in the Strait of Hormuz, as a violation of the ceasefire but announced no specific reprisals. The US action killed four Iranian soldiers. Negotiations are focused on unlocking over $12 billion in frozen Iranian assets and securing sanctions relief for Iran's oil exports. A separate agreement aims to lift the blockade of Iranian oil ports and restore commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Hardliners in both countries are pressuring negotiators, but Iran's chief negotiator is reportedly focused on the frozen assets as the last major dispute.

The US has conducted strikes on boats and missile sites in Iran's Hormozgan province, which Iran's foreign ministry has labeled a "gross violation" of a fragile ceasefire. This action occurred shortly after both nations indicated progress in peace talks aimed at halting the war and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's Revolutionary Guard stated they are prepared to respond, criticizing ongoing diplomacy. The US Central Command stated the strikes were to protect troops from Iranian threats. These events follow intense negotiations concerning a memorandum of understanding, with a key sticking point being the unfreezing of Iranian funds. The war, which began with US and Israeli strikes on Iran, has significantly impacted oil prices and global supply chains.