The maritime conflict near the Strait of Hormuz has intensified as the United States and Iran report reciprocal strikes against oil tankers and naval vessels. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claims to have targeted numerous ships and warned crews in Bahrain and Kuwait, while US Central Command reports the destruction of five Iranian crude oil tankers. Additionally, Jordan intercepted most of a ballistic missile barrage launched from Iran, which also reportedly struck American military installations in Al Azraq. In separate diplomatic developments, Israel intends to shutter the British consulate in East Jerusalem following the United Kingdom's decision to sanction Israeli settlements. Furthermore, negotiations between Israel and Lebanon, facilitated by the United States, are scheduled to proceed in Rome and Florida, though analysts anticipate little progress prior to the upcoming Israeli elections.
Source : The National
Photo : The National
