NATO Chief Strongly Defends US Strikes on Iran After Tehran Basically Violates Ceasefire Agreement
The revoked waivers have left oil markets uncertain, with the price of Brent crude rising by over 2% on Wednesday. The increase in oil prices has sparked concerns about the potential impact on the global economy. Meanwhile, the International Energy Agency (IEA) has warned that the escalating tensions in the Middle East could lead to a significant disruption in oil supplies. The IEA has urged countries to be prepared for any potential shortages by releasing strategic oil reserves if necessary. As the situation continues to unfold, the United Nations has called for restraint from all parties involved, emphasizing the need for a diplomatic solution to the crisis. The UN Secretary-General has expressed concern about the rising tensions and the potential for further escalation, which could have far-reaching consequences for the region and the world.
The US military operation in Iran has been widely condemned by Iranian officials, with the country's Foreign Minister, Hossein Amirabdollahian, describing the strikes as a "flagrant violation of international law" and vowing to take necessary measures to protect the country's interests. The Iranian government has also summoned the ambassadors of several countries, including those with naval ships in the region, to protest the US actions. In a separate development, the US Navy's Fifth Fleet, which is based in Bahrain, has announced that it is increasing its presence in the region to ensure the safe passage of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. The fleet's commander, Vice Admiral Brad Cooper, said that the US is committed to maintaining freedom of navigation in the region and will take all necessary measures to protect its ships and those of its allies. Meanwhile, the European Union has called for calm and restraint from all parties involved, urging a return to diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis peacefully. The EU's foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, said that the bloc is deeply concerned about the escalating tensions and is working to find a solution that addresses the concerns of all parties. As the situation continues to unfold, the international community is watching with bated breath, fearing that the conflict could have far-reaching consequences for the region and the global economy.
CENTCOM forces remain postured and prepared to hold Iran accountable when the agreement is not adhered to or obeyed. President Donald Trump approved the strike plan on Iran and ordered it while attending this week’s NATO summit in Turkey, a US official confirmed. The president convened top officials in Ankara, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Gen. Dan Caine, the official said.
Former US Middle East envoy Dennis Ross said Tuesday that Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) undercut President Donald Trump’s efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Ross wrote that Trump “did not want to resume the war” and that the IRGC made a mockery of what the president thought he achieved. Ross added that Iran will hit back, the US will react, and then mediators will act, leaving no war and no peace.
Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi accused the US of violating its memorandum of understanding with Iran after Washington revoked a waiver that allowed Iranian oil sales. Gharibabadi said the decision was a “blatant violation” of Article 10 of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding. He warned that Iran would take “decisive actions” to protect its national interests and security in response to what he called America’s breach of the agreement.
Britain summoned Iran’s top diplomat in London after two Romanian nationals were sentenced over the 2024 stabbing of a British-Iranian journalist who worked for Persian-language outlet Iran International. British prosecutors said the two men acted as proxies for the Iranian government, and a judge concluded the attack was carried out “in the interests of, and on behalf of, the Iranian state.”
A US official said the strikes against Iran are a “direct result” of what they described as “acts of international terrorism” against "innocent ships" transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The official stated that the Iranians know the consequences of their actions, yet they still chose to carry out these attacks. Strikes inside Iran remain ongoing, with targets including air defense systems, coastal surveillance systems, surface-to-air missile sites, anti-ship
Radar data showed a plane descending quickly and making a sharp turn before radar and radio contact were lost about 155 nautical miles west of Karachi, with search and rescue operations currently underway in the Arabian Sea. The cause of the incident remains unclear.
Explosions were reported in southern Iran early Wednesday, according to Iran International, as the US announced strikes in response to attacks on commercial ships near the Strait of Hormuz. The US military action came after three merchant ships were struck in waters off Oman near the key waterway.
US Central Command stated that the strikes were intended to impose "heavy costs" on Iran for targeting commercial ships crewed by civilians, describing Tehran's actions as "unwarranted, dangerous, and a clear violation of the ceasefire."
The latest exchange threatens to further strain last month's interim deal and complicate talks aimed at fully reopening the Strait of Hormuz, addressing Iran's nuclear program, and ending the war that began on February 28.
Bahrain has condemned Iran's "terrorist attack" on a Saudi tanker and a Qatari tanker in the Strait of Hormuz, calling it an unacceptable threat to international navigation, global energy supplies, and regional security. Bahrain's Foreign Ministry said the attack endangered the crews of both vessels and violated international law, a United Nations Security Council resolution, and the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding.
The Bahraini government has expressed full solidarity with Saudi Arabia and Qatar, supporting the measures taken by the two countries to preserve their security and vital interests. Bahrain has also called on the international community, particularly the UN Security Council, to take a firm stance to prevent further Iranian attacks and ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
Saudi Arabia has strongly condemned Iran's attacks on a Saudi tanker and a Qatari tanker, describing them as a direct threat to international navigation and global energy supplies. The Kingdom has affirmed that these unacceptable attacks are an assault on the security and safety of international navigation and the security of global energy supplies.
The US has begun to reinstate oil sanctions waivers offered to Iran as part of a framework deal, following Iran's attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. A US official
The US official's statement on the performance-based MOU with Iran underscores the administration's commitment to holding Tehran accountable for its actions. The revocation of sanctions waivers is a direct consequence of Iran's unacceptable behavior in the Strait of Hormuz. As negotiations continue towards a final deal, the US remains firm in its stance that Iran must demonstrate good faith and adhere to international norms.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed concerns over a potential US sale of F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, citing Ankara's ties to the Muslim Brotherhood and Erdogan's support for Hamas. Netanyahu's warnings highlight the complexities of regional alliances and the delicate balance of power in the Middle East.
In Iran, the funeral proceedings for former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei are ongoing, with his body being flown to Najaf, Iraq, for processions planned in the holy Shiite cities of Najaf and Karbala. The new supreme leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, has not appeared at the ceremonies, fueling speculation about his role in the country's future.
A hardline Iranian lawmaker's suggestion to target President Trump's location with a missile has raised concerns about the escalating rhetoric between the US and Iran. Furthermore, Iran's claim of authority over sections of the Strait of Hormuz has sparked fresh concerns over the critical shipping lane, with the country arguing that it has the right to exercise sovereignty under international law.
The UK Maritime Trade Operations Centre has raised the threat level in the Strait of Hormuz to "severe" following the attacks on oil tankers, warning of deliberate hostile action and navigation interference. The heightened threat environment underscores the need for extreme vigilance and highlights the ongoing tensions in the region.
The IRGC's actions in the Strait of Hormuz continue to pose a significant threat to maritime security, with reports of hailing and routing pressure on AIS-active vessels. Earlier on Tuesday, the UK Maritime Trade Operations Centre confirmed that a ship was struck by an unknown Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle (UAV) off the coast of Oman, resulting in minor structural damage but no casualties.
Sources have identified the damaged vessel as a Saudi-flagged crude oil tanker, which was traveling near the Strait of Hormuz when the incident occurred. This incident follows a similar attack on a Qatari LNG tanker in the same area on Monday.
In a separate development, the Israel Defense Forces announced the discovery of a cache of weapons, including explosive devices, anti-tank missile launchers, and RPG rockets, in a civilian home within the security zone along Lebanon's border. The IDF released a video showing the seized weaponry, which also included a Hezbollah flag.
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has praised Turkey as a "great ally" to the United States, citing the country's role in Operation Epic Fury. Speaking alongside Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Trump expressed his intention to lift US sanctions on Turkey and signaled his willingness to proceed with the sale of F-35 stealth fighter jets, despite existing legal restrictions related to Ankara's purchase of the Russian-made S-400 air defense system.
Trump's comments mark a significant shift in US policy towards Turkey, which was previously expelled from the F-35 program due to its purchase of the S-400 system. The US President dismissed concerns about Turkey's possession of the S-400, stating that he has "no concerns about anything." The development is likely to have significant implications for regional security and the balance of power in the Middle East.
The US President's comments have sparked concerns among European leaders, who have been seeking to reassure their citizens that NATO remains a strong and united alliance. Trump's suggestion that he was "testing" NATO allies has been met with skepticism, with some officials questioning the wisdom of publicly criticizing the alliance.
Meanwhile, the US Ambassador to NATO, Matthew Whitaker, has sought to downplay the tensions, stating that while the US is disappointed by the lack of support from some allies, it remains committed to the alliance. However, Whitaker's comments have done little to alleviate concerns that the US is reevaluating its role in NATO and may be seeking to redefine its relationships with European allies.
As the NATO summit gets underway, European leaders are bracing for a potentially contentious meeting, with many expecting Trump to push for greater burden-sharing and a more robust response to emerging security threats. The summit is likely to be dominated by discussions on Iran, Russia, and the future of the alliance, with many allies seeking to reassure the US of their commitment to NATO's core principles.
In a related development, the US has announced plans to increase its military presence in the region, with a focus on bolstering its capabilities in the Middle East and Eastern Europe. The move is seen as a response to growing concerns about Russian aggression and Iranian expansionism, and is likely to be welcomed by allies who have been seeking a more robust US commitment to regional security.
As the situation continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the US is seeking to redefine its role in the region and to challenge its allies to do more to address emerging security threats. The outcome of the NATO summit will be closely watched, as allies seek to navigate the challenges posed by a rapidly changing security landscape.
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced on Tuesday that the next round of talks between Israel and Lebanon, facilitated by the United States, will take place in Rome on July 14 and 15. This development comes after Secretary of State Marco Rubio unveiled a US-backed framework for lasting peace and security between the two nations in late June. The talks aim to address the ongoing tensions in the region, which escalated in February when Hezbollah launched rockets and drones into Israel, prompting extensive strikes against the group's targets in Lebanon.
The situation has been further complicated by Iran's involvement, with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi stating that Tehran will not engage in negotiations on a final deal with the US if threats continue. This statement was made in response to President Donald Trump's revived threats to strike Iran's power plants and bridges if a peace agreement is not reached. Trump's comments have raised concerns about the potential for further escalation in the region.
Meanwhile, tensions in the Strait of Hormuz remain high, with a Saudi-flagged crude oil tanker being damaged near the strait while traveling off the coast of Oman. This incident follows a similar attack on a Qatari LNG tanker on Monday, which suffered significant damage after being struck by an unknown projectile. The cause of the latest blast is unknown, and the UK Maritime Trade Operations Centre has warned that the maritime security threat level in the Strait of Hormuz remains substantial. The incidents have raised concerns about the safety of shipping in the region and the potential for further conflict.
As President Donald Trump attends the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey, the funeral procession of Iran's late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has sparked widespread outrage and calls for revenge against the United States and Israel. The massive crowds in Tehran, dressed in black, have vowed to avenge Khamenei's death, with many calling for President Trump's death and targeting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The Iranian regime has encouraged the turnout as a show of strength, amidst tense negotiations with Washington over an end to the war. The funeral procession has seen mourners waving signs and banners, with an effigy of Trump hanging along the route. Mourners like Fatima Hassan have expressed their determination for revenge, stating that they are not gathered to bid farewell to Khamenei, but to seek vengeance.
Khamenei's casket was later flown to the Shiite seminary city of Qom, where he is expected to be honored, according to state television. The outpouring of grief and anger in Iran has highlighted the deep-seated tensions between Tehran and Washington, which are likely to complicate the already fraught negotiations over a potential peace agreement.
As the NATO summit gets underway, the alliance's members are bracing for a potentially contentious meeting, with Trump expected to press allies to increase defense spending and demonstrate their commitment to supporting the United States in conflicts beyond Europe. The disagreements over burden-sharing and the US-led operations against Iran are likely to dominate the agenda, with Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez having already criticized the US war in Iran as "illegal, absurd and cruel."
The US military operation in Iran has been widely condemned by Iranian officials, with the country's Foreign Minister, Hossein Amirabdollahian, describing the strikes as a "flagrant violation of international law" and vowing to take necessary measures to protect the country's interests. The Iranian government has also summoned the ambassadors of several countries, including those with naval ships in the region, to protest the US actions. In a separate development, the US Navy's Fifth Fleet, which is based in Bahrain, has announced that it is increasing its presence in the region to ensure the safe passage of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. The fleet's commander, Vice Admiral Brad Cooper, said that the US is committed to maintaining freedom of navigation in the region and will take all necessary measures to protect its ships and those of its allies. Meanwhile, the European Union has called for calm and restraint from all parties involved, urging a return to diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis peacefully. The EU's foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, said that the bloc is deeply concerned about the escalating tensions and is working to find a solution that addresses the concerns of all parties. As the situation continues to unfold, the international community is watching with bated breath, fearing that the conflict could have far-reaching consequences for the region and the global economy.
CENTCOM forces remain postured and prepared to hold Iran accountable when the agreement is not adhered to or obeyed. President Donald Trump approved the strike plan on Iran and ordered it while attending this week’s NATO summit in Turkey, a US official confirmed. The president convened top officials in Ankara, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Gen. Dan Caine, the official said.
Former US Middle East envoy Dennis Ross said Tuesday that Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) undercut President Donald Trump’s efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Ross wrote that Trump “did not want to resume the war” and that the IRGC made a mockery of what the president thought he achieved. Ross added that Iran will hit back, the US will react, and then mediators will act, leaving no war and no peace.
Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi accused the US of violating its memorandum of understanding with Iran after Washington revoked a waiver that allowed Iranian oil sales. Gharibabadi said the decision was a “blatant violation” of Article 10 of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding. He warned that Iran would take “decisive actions” to protect its national interests and security in response to what he called America’s breach of the agreement.
Britain summoned Iran’s top diplomat in London after two Romanian nationals were sentenced over the 2024 stabbing of a British-Iranian journalist who worked for Persian-language outlet Iran International. British prosecutors said the two men acted as proxies for the Iranian government, and a judge concluded the attack was carried out “in the interests of, and on behalf of, the Iranian state.”
A US official said the strikes against Iran are a “direct result” of what they described as “acts of international terrorism” against "innocent ships" transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The official stated that the Iranians know the consequences of their actions, yet they still chose to carry out these attacks. Strikes inside Iran remain ongoing, with targets including air defense systems, coastal surveillance systems, surface-to-air missile sites, anti-ship
Radar data showed a plane descending quickly and making a sharp turn before radar and radio contact were lost about 155 nautical miles west of Karachi, with search and rescue operations currently underway in the Arabian Sea. The cause of the incident remains unclear.
Explosions were reported in southern Iran early Wednesday, according to Iran International, as the US announced strikes in response to attacks on commercial ships near the Strait of Hormuz. The US military action came after three merchant ships were struck in waters off Oman near the key waterway.
US Central Command stated that the strikes were intended to impose "heavy costs" on Iran for targeting commercial ships crewed by civilians, describing Tehran's actions as "unwarranted, dangerous, and a clear violation of the ceasefire."
The latest exchange threatens to further strain last month's interim deal and complicate talks aimed at fully reopening the Strait of Hormuz, addressing Iran's nuclear program, and ending the war that began on February 28.
Bahrain has condemned Iran's "terrorist attack" on a Saudi tanker and a Qatari tanker in the Strait of Hormuz, calling it an unacceptable threat to international navigation, global energy supplies, and regional security. Bahrain's Foreign Ministry said the attack endangered the crews of both vessels and violated international law, a United Nations Security Council resolution, and the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding.
The Bahraini government has expressed full solidarity with Saudi Arabia and Qatar, supporting the measures taken by the two countries to preserve their security and vital interests. Bahrain has also called on the international community, particularly the UN Security Council, to take a firm stance to prevent further Iranian attacks and ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
Saudi Arabia has strongly condemned Iran's attacks on a Saudi tanker and a Qatari tanker, describing them as a direct threat to international navigation and global energy supplies. The Kingdom has affirmed that these unacceptable attacks are an assault on the security and safety of international navigation and the security of global energy supplies.
The US has begun to reinstate oil sanctions waivers offered to Iran as part of a framework deal, following Iran's attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. A US official
The US official's statement on the performance-based MOU with Iran underscores the administration's commitment to holding Tehran accountable for its actions. The revocation of sanctions waivers is a direct consequence of Iran's unacceptable behavior in the Strait of Hormuz. As negotiations continue towards a final deal, the US remains firm in its stance that Iran must demonstrate good faith and adhere to international norms.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed concerns over a potential US sale of F-35 fighter jets to Turkey, citing Ankara's ties to the Muslim Brotherhood and Erdogan's support for Hamas. Netanyahu's warnings highlight the complexities of regional alliances and the delicate balance of power in the Middle East.
In Iran, the funeral proceedings for former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei are ongoing, with his body being flown to Najaf, Iraq, for processions planned in the holy Shiite cities of Najaf and Karbala. The new supreme leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, has not appeared at the ceremonies, fueling speculation about his role in the country's future.
A hardline Iranian lawmaker's suggestion to target President Trump's location with a missile has raised concerns about the escalating rhetoric between the US and Iran. Furthermore, Iran's claim of authority over sections of the Strait of Hormuz has sparked fresh concerns over the critical shipping lane, with the country arguing that it has the right to exercise sovereignty under international law.
The UK Maritime Trade Operations Centre has raised the threat level in the Strait of Hormuz to "severe" following the attacks on oil tankers, warning of deliberate hostile action and navigation interference. The heightened threat environment underscores the need for extreme vigilance and highlights the ongoing tensions in the region.
The IRGC's actions in the Strait of Hormuz continue to pose a significant threat to maritime security, with reports of hailing and routing pressure on AIS-active vessels. Earlier on Tuesday, the UK Maritime Trade Operations Centre confirmed that a ship was struck by an unknown Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle (UAV) off the coast of Oman, resulting in minor structural damage but no casualties.
Sources have identified the damaged vessel as a Saudi-flagged crude oil tanker, which was traveling near the Strait of Hormuz when the incident occurred. This incident follows a similar attack on a Qatari LNG tanker in the same area on Monday.
In a separate development, the Israel Defense Forces announced the discovery of a cache of weapons, including explosive devices, anti-tank missile launchers, and RPG rockets, in a civilian home within the security zone along Lebanon's border. The IDF released a video showing the seized weaponry, which also included a Hezbollah flag.
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has praised Turkey as a "great ally" to the United States, citing the country's role in Operation Epic Fury. Speaking alongside Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Trump expressed his intention to lift US sanctions on Turkey and signaled his willingness to proceed with the sale of F-35 stealth fighter jets, despite existing legal restrictions related to Ankara's purchase of the Russian-made S-400 air defense system.
Trump's comments mark a significant shift in US policy towards Turkey, which was previously expelled from the F-35 program due to its purchase of the S-400 system. The US President dismissed concerns about Turkey's possession of the S-400, stating that he has "no concerns about anything." The development is likely to have significant implications for regional security and the balance of power in the Middle East.
The US President's comments have sparked concerns among European leaders, who have been seeking to reassure their citizens that NATO remains a strong and united alliance. Trump's suggestion that he was "testing" NATO allies has been met with skepticism, with some officials questioning the wisdom of publicly criticizing the alliance.
Meanwhile, the US Ambassador to NATO, Matthew Whitaker, has sought to downplay the tensions, stating that while the US is disappointed by the lack of support from some allies, it remains committed to the alliance. However, Whitaker's comments have done little to alleviate concerns that the US is reevaluating its role in NATO and may be seeking to redefine its relationships with European allies.
As the NATO summit gets underway, European leaders are bracing for a potentially contentious meeting, with many expecting Trump to push for greater burden-sharing and a more robust response to emerging security threats. The summit is likely to be dominated by discussions on Iran, Russia, and the future of the alliance, with many allies seeking to reassure the US of their commitment to NATO's core principles.
In a related development, the US has announced plans to increase its military presence in the region, with a focus on bolstering its capabilities in the Middle East and Eastern Europe. The move is seen as a response to growing concerns about Russian aggression and Iranian expansionism, and is likely to be welcomed by allies who have been seeking a more robust US commitment to regional security.
As the situation continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the US is seeking to redefine its role in the region and to challenge its allies to do more to address emerging security threats. The outcome of the NATO summit will be closely watched, as allies seek to navigate the challenges posed by a rapidly changing security landscape.
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced on Tuesday that the next round of talks between Israel and Lebanon, facilitated by the United States, will take place in Rome on July 14 and 15. This development comes after Secretary of State Marco Rubio unveiled a US-backed framework for lasting peace and security between the two nations in late June. The talks aim to address the ongoing tensions in the region, which escalated in February when Hezbollah launched rockets and drones into Israel, prompting extensive strikes against the group's targets in Lebanon.
The situation has been further complicated by Iran's involvement, with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi stating that Tehran will not engage in negotiations on a final deal with the US if threats continue. This statement was made in response to President Donald Trump's revived threats to strike Iran's power plants and bridges if a peace agreement is not reached. Trump's comments have raised concerns about the potential for further escalation in the region.
Meanwhile, tensions in the Strait of Hormuz remain high, with a Saudi-flagged crude oil tanker being damaged near the strait while traveling off the coast of Oman. This incident follows a similar attack on a Qatari LNG tanker on Monday, which suffered significant damage after being struck by an unknown projectile. The cause of the latest blast is unknown, and the UK Maritime Trade Operations Centre has warned that the maritime security threat level in the Strait of Hormuz remains substantial. The incidents have raised concerns about the safety of shipping in the region and the potential for further conflict.
As President Donald Trump attends the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey, the funeral procession of Iran's late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has sparked widespread outrage and calls for revenge against the United States and Israel. The massive crowds in Tehran, dressed in black, have vowed to avenge Khamenei's death, with many calling for President Trump's death and targeting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The Iranian regime has encouraged the turnout as a show of strength, amidst tense negotiations with Washington over an end to the war. The funeral procession has seen mourners waving signs and banners, with an effigy of Trump hanging along the route. Mourners like Fatima Hassan have expressed their determination for revenge, stating that they are not gathered to bid farewell to Khamenei, but to seek vengeance.
Khamenei's casket was later flown to the Shiite seminary city of Qom, where he is expected to be honored, according to state television. The outpouring of grief and anger in Iran has highlighted the deep-seated tensions between Tehran and Washington, which are likely to complicate the already fraught negotiations over a potential peace agreement.
As the NATO summit gets underway, the alliance's members are bracing for a potentially contentious meeting, with Trump expected to press allies to increase defense spending and demonstrate their commitment to supporting the United States in conflicts beyond Europe. The disagreements over burden-sharing and the US-led operations against Iran are likely to dominate the agenda, with Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez having already criticized the US war in Iran as "illegal, absurd and cruel."
#News, #USA