Tensions were reignited in the Gulf on Sunday (May 10) with Iran launching fresh drone attacks across the region. While cargo vessels were targeted in the Strait of Hormuz, the UAE and Kuwait also reported drone attacks. This comes after Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps threatened to target US sites in the Middle East and “enemy ships” if its tankers came under fire.<h2>UAE, Kuwait report drone attacks</h2>The United Arab Emirates on Sunday said that it intercepted two Iranian drones. “UAE air defence systems successfully engaged two UAVs launched from Iran,” the defence ministry said in a statement on X.In a statement, Kuwait military reported a drone attack against the country at dawn. “At dawn today, the armed forces detected a number of hostile drones in Kuwaiti airspace, which were dealt with in accordance with established procedures,” the general staff of the army said on X, without specifying the origin of the drones.<h2>Vessel targeted in Gulf waters</h2>A commercial vessel was struck in Gulf waters on Sunday. The Qatari Defence Ministry said that a cargo ship was targeted by a drone in the country’s territorial waters. The incident resulted in a fire on board the vessel. “A commercial cargo vessel in the country’s territorial waters – northeast of Mesaieed Port – coming from Abu Dhabi, was targeted by a drone on Sunday morning. The incident resulted in a limited fire on board the vessel, with no reported injuries,” the Qatari ministry said on X.Earlier, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations centre said that a bulk carrier was hit 23 nautical miles northeast of Doha by an “unknown projectile”.While there was no immediate claim of responsibility, Iran’s Fars news agency reported, citing a source, that “the bulk carrier that was struck near the coast of Qatar was sailing under the US flag and belonged to the United States.”Meanwhile, the South Korean foreign ministry said that its cargo ship was struck by “two unidentified aircraft” in the Strait of Hormuz earlier this week. The statement came days after the fire-damaged HMM Namu arrived at port in Dubai. The ministry did not specify what type of aircraft struck the vessel.<h2>‘Restraint is over’</h2>Iranian parliament's national security commission spokesman on Sunday warned the United States against any attacks on Iranian vessels in the Gulf waters, saying that Tehran’s restraint was over.“Our restraint is over as of today. Any attack on our vessels will trigger a strong and decisive Iranian response against American ships and bases,” Ebrahim Rezaei said in a post on X.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Tensions flared in the Gulf as Iran launched fresh drone attacks on Qatar, the UAE and Kuwait. A cargo vessel was hit in Qatari waters after Tehran threatened US bases and “enemy ships.”

Tensions were reignited in the Gulf on Sunday (May 10) with Iran launching fresh drone attacks across the region. While cargo vessels were targeted in the Strait of Hormuz, the UAE and Kuwait also reported drone attacks. This comes after Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps threatened to target US sites in the Middle East and “enemy ships” if its tankers came under fire. UAE, Kuwait report drone attacks The United Arab Emirates on Sunday said that it intercepted two Iranian drones. “UAE air defence systems successfully engaged two UAVs launched from Iran,” the defence ministry said in a statement on X. In a statement, Kuwait military reported a drone attack against the country at dawn. “At dawn today, the armed forces detected a number of hostile drones in Kuwaiti airspace, which were dealt with in accordance with established procedures,” the general staff of the army said on X, without specifying the origin of the drones. Vessel targeted in Gulf waters A commercial vessel was struck in Gulf waters on Sunday. The Qatari Defence Ministry said that a cargo ship was targeted by a drone in the country’s territorial waters. The incident resulted in a fire on board the vessel. “A commercial cargo vessel in the country’s territorial waters – northeast of Mesaieed Port – coming from Abu Dhabi, was targeted by a drone on Sunday morning. The incident resulted in a limited fire on board the vessel, with no reported injuries,” the Qatari ministry said on X. Earlier, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations centre said that a bulk carrier was hit 23 nautical miles northeast of Doha by an “unknown projectile”. While there was no immediate claim of responsibility, Iran’s Fars news agency reported, citing a source, that “the bulk carrier that was struck near the coast of Qatar was sailing under the US flag and belonged to the United States.” Meanwhile, the South Korean foreign ministry said that its cargo ship was struck by “two unidentified aircraft” in the Strait of Hormuz earlier this week. The statement came days after the fire-damaged HMM Namu arrived at port in Dubai. The ministry did not specify what type of aircraft struck the vessel. ‘Restraint is over’ Iranian parliament's national security commission spokesman on Sunday warned the United States against any attacks on Iranian vessels in the Gulf waters, saying that Tehran’s restraint was over. “Our restraint is over as of today. Any attack on our vessels will trigger a strong and decisive Iranian response against American ships and bases,” Ebrahim Rezaei said in a post on X. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Tensions flared in the Gulf as Iran launched fresh drone attacks on Qatar, the UAE and Kuwait. A cargo vessel was hit in Qatari waters after Tehran threatened US bases and “enemy ships.”

Iran launches fresh drone attacks across Gulf after threatening US

Iran’s head of the military central command, Ali Abdollahi, met with the country’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, Iranian state media reported on Sunday (May 10). The report added that he issued fresh directions ordering the continuation of the operation against the US. This comes days after the Islamic Republic’s President Masoud Pezeshkian met with Mojtaba, who has not made any public appearance since the war began in West Asia.Khamenei issued “new directives and guidance for the continuation of operations to confront the enemy” state TV said. It did not specify when or where the meeting took place.&nbsp;Several theories and rumours have circulated over his health and condition since he was named supreme leader, with many reports suggesting that he had been wounded in the US-Israeli strikes that killed his father.&nbsp;<h2>UAE, Kuwait report drone attacks</h2>Meanwhile, tensions were reignited in the Gulf on Sunday (May 10) with Iran launching fresh drone attacks across the region. While cargo vessels were targeted in the Strait of Hormuz, the UAE and Kuwait also reported drone attacks. This comes after Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps threatened to target US sites in the Middle East and “enemy ships” if its tankers came under fire.The United Arab Emirates on Sunday said that it intercepted two Iranian drones. “UAE air defence systems successfully engaged two UAVs launched from Iran,” the defence ministry said in a statement on X.In a statement, Kuwait military reported a drone attack against the country at dawn. “At dawn today, the armed forces detected a number of hostile drones in Kuwaiti airspace, which were dealt with in accordance with established procedures,” the general staff of the army said on X, without specifying the origin of the drones.<h2>Vessel targeted in Gulf waters</h2>A commercial vessel was struck in Gulf waters on Sunday. The Qatari Defence Ministry said that a cargo ship was targeted by a drone in the country’s territorial waters. The incident resulted in a fire on board the vessel. “A commercial cargo vessel in the country’s territorial waters – northeast of Mesaieed Port – coming from Abu Dhabi, was targeted by a drone on Sunday morning. The incident resulted in a limited fire on board the vessel, with no reported injuries,” the Qatari ministry said on X.Earlier, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations centre said that a bulk carrier was hit 23 nautical miles northeast of Doha by an “unknown projectile”.While there was no immediate claim of responsibility, Iran’s Fars news agency reported, citing a source, that “the bulk carrier that was struck near the coast of Qatar was sailing under the US flag and belonged to the United States.”Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iran’s military chief Ali Abdollahi met Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, state media said, days after President Pezeshkian’s meeting. Khamenei reportedly issued fresh directives amid rumours over his health.

Iran’s head of the military central command, Ali Abdollahi, met with the country’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, Iranian state media reported on Sunday (May 10). The report added that he issued fresh directions ordering the continuation of the operation against the US. This comes days after the Islamic Republic’s President Masoud Pezeshkian met with Mojtaba, who has not made any public appearance since the war began in West Asia. Khamenei issued “new directives and guidance for the continuation of operations to confront the enemy” state TV said. It did not specify when or where the meeting took place. Several theories and rumours have circulated over his health and condition since he was named supreme leader, with many reports suggesting that he had been wounded in the US-Israeli strikes that killed his father. UAE, Kuwait report drone attacks Meanwhile, tensions were reignited in the Gulf on Sunday (May 10) with Iran launching fresh drone attacks across the region. While cargo vessels were targeted in the Strait of Hormuz, the UAE and Kuwait also reported drone attacks. This comes after Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps threatened to target US sites in the Middle East and “enemy ships” if its tankers came under fire. The United Arab Emirates on Sunday said that it intercepted two Iranian drones. “UAE air defence systems successfully engaged two UAVs launched from Iran,” the defence ministry said in a statement on X. In a statement, Kuwait military reported a drone attack against the country at dawn. “At dawn today, the armed forces detected a number of hostile drones in Kuwaiti airspace, which were dealt with in accordance with established procedures,” the general staff of the army said on X, without specifying the origin of the drones. Vessel targeted in Gulf waters A commercial vessel was struck in Gulf waters on Sunday. The Qatari Defence Ministry said that a cargo ship was targeted by a drone in the country’s territorial waters. The incident resulted in a fire on board the vessel. “A commercial cargo vessel in the country’s territorial waters – northeast of Mesaieed Port – coming from Abu Dhabi, was targeted by a drone on Sunday morning. The incident resulted in a limited fire on board the vessel, with no reported injuries,” the Qatari ministry said on X. Earlier, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations centre said that a bulk carrier was hit 23 nautical miles northeast of Doha by an “unknown projectile”. While there was no immediate claim of responsibility, Iran’s Fars news agency reported, citing a source, that “the bulk carrier that was struck near the coast of Qatar was sailing under the US flag and belonged to the United States.” Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iran’s military chief Ali Abdollahi met Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, state media said, days after President Pezeshkian’s meeting. Khamenei reportedly issued fresh directives amid rumours over his health.

‘Confront the enemy’: Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei issues new directive after meeting military head

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has declared that the Iranian nation will “never bow to the enemy”, while insisting that any future negotiations would be aimed at protecting national interests rather than signalling surrender. Speaking during a meeting of a working group tasked with repairing damage caused by the recent conflict, Pezeshkian said diplomacy would only be pursued to secure the rights of the Iranian people and strengthen the country’s position.&nbsp;“If there is talk of dialogue or negotiation, its meaning is not surrender or retreat; rather, the goal is to fulfil the rights of the Iranian people and provide a powerful defence of national interests,” the Iranian president said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-pentagon-releases-footage-of-us-navy-f-a-18-super-hornet-bombing-2-iranian-tankers-in-hormuz-1778299459298">WATCH: Pentagon releases footage of US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet bombing 2 Iranian tankers in Hormuz</a>&nbsp;His remarks came as the Iranian government intensified efforts to support families affected by what officials have described as the “Third Imposed War”, following months of heightened regional tensions and conflict.&nbsp;Pezeshkian said the administration’s immediate priority was ensuring the “psychological security and peace of mind” of families impacted by the fighting, while also accelerating reconstruction and compensation measures.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-s-the-status-of-iran-truce-trump-says-we-ll-let-you-know-declines-to-reveal-if-strikes-could-resume-1777961346771">What’s the status of Iran truce? Trump says, ‘we’ll let you know’, declines to reveal if strikes could resume</a>&nbsp;The president outlined plans for closer coordination between the government and domestic manufacturers to speed up recovery efforts. According to Pezeshkian, the state is prepared to provide industries with raw materials and logistical support, while producers are expected to assist affected households through discounts and favourable conditions on essential goods.&nbsp;He also urged manufacturers to treat the supply of household necessities as a national responsibility, particularly for citizens displaced or financially affected by the conflict.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/removal-of-us-sanctions-compensation-for-damages-and-more-here-s-what-s-inside-iran-s-14-point-plan-to-end-war-1777790104668">Removal of US sanctions, compensation for damages and more: Here’s what’s inside Iran’s 14-point plan to end war</a>

President Pezeshkian vowed Iran will not surrender following the "Third Imposed War," prioritising domestic reconstruction and psychological security. He framed future negotiations as a strategic means to defend national rights.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has declared that the Iranian nation will “never bow to the enemy”, while insisting that any future negotiations would be aimed at protecting national interests rather than signalling surrender. Speaking during a meeting of a working group tasked with repairing damage caused by the recent conflict, Pezeshkian said diplomacy would only be pursued to secure the rights of the Iranian people and strengthen the country’s position. “If there is talk of dialogue or negotiation, its meaning is not surrender or retreat; rather, the goal is to fulfil the rights of the Iranian people and provide a powerful defence of national interests,” the Iranian president said. Also read: WATCH: Pentagon releases footage of US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet bombing 2 Iranian tankers in Hormuz His remarks came as the Iranian government intensified efforts to support families affected by what officials have described as the “Third Imposed War”, following months of heightened regional tensions and conflict. Pezeshkian said the administration’s immediate priority was ensuring the “psychological security and peace of mind” of families impacted by the fighting, while also accelerating reconstruction and compensation measures. Also read: What’s the status of Iran truce? Trump says, ‘we’ll let you know’, declines to reveal if strikes could resume The president outlined plans for closer coordination between the government and domestic manufacturers to speed up recovery efforts. According to Pezeshkian, the state is prepared to provide industries with raw materials and logistical support, while producers are expected to assist affected households through discounts and favourable conditions on essential goods. He also urged manufacturers to treat the supply of household necessities as a national responsibility, particularly for citizens displaced or financially affected by the conflict. Also read: Removal of US sanctions, compensation for damages and more: Here’s what’s inside Iran’s 14-point plan to end war

President Pezeshkian vowed Iran will not surrender following the "Third Imposed War," prioritising domestic reconstruction and psychological security. He framed future negotiations as a strategic means to defend national rights.

Iran will ‘never bow to the enemy’, says Pezeshkian as Tehran pushes recovery efforts after conflict

US President Donald Trump on Saturday flooded his Truth Social account with over a dozen posts featuring AI-generated Iran war images and golf tournament snapshots. His social media account was inactive throughout the morning till early afternoon, but then at 3:51 p.m., he shared an artificial image showing drones marked with Iranian flags sinking into the sea, describing them as “dropping like butterflies.” Shortly afterwards, he posted another fabricated image showing a US warship firing laser beams into the sky, causing massive explosions, along with the caption: “Bye Bye, Drones.” Trump then turned his attention to attacking former Democratic presidents Joe Biden and Barack Obama, seemingly blaming them for failing to take military action against Iran.<h3>Post on claims of US forces sinking 159 Iranian vessels</h3>One split-screen graphic contrasted a destroyed Iranian naval fleet labelled “Trump” with untouched ships under “Obama/Biden,” reinforcing Trump’s earlier claim that US forces had sunk 159 Iranian vessels. He later shared an AI-generated image portraying himself aboard a ship, gazing through binoculars as an approaching fleet erupted in flames. Trump’s war-based social media posts followed amid an ongoing tenuous ceasefire between the US and Iran, as both nations are enforcing duelling blockades in the Strait of Hormuz. Recent developments show the tensions remain broadly unpopular with the American public.<h3>LIV Golf tournament</h3>Alongside the war-themed content, Trump also shared several images from a LIV Golf tournament held Saturday at Trump National Golf Club in Virginia. A few of the pictures, apparently taken from a television broadcast, showcased the vast property overlooking the Potomac River. Trump was present at the event and was seen seated behind bulletproof glass beside his son, Eric Trump. The appearance came just days after he attended the Cadillac Championship at Trump National Doral in Florida.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-again-hints-at-withdrawing-troops-from-italian-bases-italy-was-not-there-when-we-needed-1778399365915">'Italy was not there...': Trump targets Meloni again, hints at withdrawing troops from Italian bases</a>

Trump’s war-themed social media posts came amid a fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran, with both countries continuing to enforce rival blockades in the Strait of Hormuz. 

US President Donald Trump on Saturday flooded his Truth Social account with over a dozen posts featuring AI-generated Iran war images and golf tournament snapshots. His social media account was inactive throughout the morning till early afternoon, but then at 3:51 p.m., he shared an artificial image showing drones marked with Iranian flags sinking into the sea, describing them as “dropping like butterflies.” Shortly afterwards, he posted another fabricated image showing a US warship firing laser beams into the sky, causing massive explosions, along with the caption: “Bye Bye, Drones.” Trump then turned his attention to attacking former Democratic presidents Joe Biden and Barack Obama, seemingly blaming them for failing to take military action against Iran. Post on claims of US forces sinking 159 Iranian vessels One split-screen graphic contrasted a destroyed Iranian naval fleet labelled “Trump” with untouched ships under “Obama/Biden,” reinforcing Trump’s earlier claim that US forces had sunk 159 Iranian vessels. He later shared an AI-generated image portraying himself aboard a ship, gazing through binoculars as an approaching fleet erupted in flames. Trump’s war-based social media posts followed amid an ongoing tenuous ceasefire between the US and Iran, as both nations are enforcing duelling blockades in the Strait of Hormuz. Recent developments show the tensions remain broadly unpopular with the American public. LIV Golf tournament Alongside the war-themed content, Trump also shared several images from a LIV Golf tournament held Saturday at Trump National Golf Club in Virginia. A few of the pictures, apparently taken from a television broadcast, showcased the vast property overlooking the Potomac River. Trump was present at the event and was seen seated behind bulletproof glass beside his son, Eric Trump. The appearance came just days after he attended the Cadillac Championship at Trump National Doral in Florida. Also read: 'Italy was not there...': Trump targets Meloni again, hints at withdrawing troops from Italian bases

Trump’s war-themed social media posts came amid a fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran, with both countries continuing to enforce rival blockades in the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;

'Bye bye, drones': Trump floods truth social with AI Iran war images, LIV Golf photos

Tensions escalate in the US-Iran conflict as the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) warns of strong retaliation if Iranian tankers or vessels come under attack in the Gulf region. The IRGC stated it could strike US military sites and interests across the Gulf if hostilities continue, raising fears of a wider regional escalation.


US-Iran War: IRGC Threatens Strikes on US Gulf Bases if Tankers Are Hit

Tensions escalate in the US-Iran conflict as the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) warns of strong retaliation if Iranian tankers or vessels come under attack in the Gulf region. The IRGC stated it could strike US military sites and interests across the Gulf if hostilities continue, raising fears of a wider regional escalation.

US-Iran War | IRGC: Will Strike US Sites in Gulf if Tankers Come Under Fire 

Amid escalating US–Iran tensions, reports suggest that IRGC officials along with Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf are effectively handling Iran’s day-to-day war and administrative operations. The development highlights the growing influence of hardline military and political structures within Tehran as diplomatic uncertainty continues. While official negotiations remain unclear, internal power centers appear to be driving key decisions on strategy, security, and governance during the ongoing conflict.


Iran War: 'IRGC Officials and Ghalibaf Running Day-To-Day Operations' 

US have sanctioned 10 individuals and companies across five countries on Friday, May 8. It accused them of supporting Iran’s ballistic missile and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) program. Sanctions hit entities in China, Hong Kong, Dubai (UAE), Belarus, and Iran. These entities allegedly help Iran in procuring weapons components and aerospace-grade raw materials for the Shahed-series drones and Iran’s ballistic missile programs.“While the surviving IRGC leaders are trapped like rats in a sinking ship, the Treasury Department is unrelenting in our Economic Fury campaign,” said Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent. &nbsp;“Under President Trump’s decisive leadership, we will continue to act to keep America Safe and target foreign individuals and companies providing Iran’s military with weapons for use against U.S. forces.”Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-project-freedom-plus-iran-talks-strait-of-hormuz-1778303163507">Trump warns of ‘Project Freedom Plus’ if Iran talks fail amid escalating Strait of Hormuz crisis</a><h2>Who are the sanctioned entities?</h2>According to the statement released by the US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), sanctioned entities include China-based Yushita Shanghai International Trade Co Ltd, Dubai-based Elite Energy FZCO (Elite Energy), Hong Kong-based AE International Trade Co Limited (AE International), Hong Kong-based HK Hesin Industry Co Limited (HK Hesin), Belarus-based Armory Alliance LLC (Armory Alliance), Belarus-based Iranian national Mohammadmahdi Maleki (Maleki), an employee of Armory Alliance, Belarussian national Mohammed Ali Tolibov (Tolibov) the chief executive officer of Armory Alliance, Hong Kong-based Mustad Limited, Iran-based Pishgam Electronic Safeh Company, China-based Hitex Insulation Ningbo Company Limited (Hitex), and Chinese national Li Genping the legal representative of Hitex and manages the company’s sales, purchasing, and financial operations. They are being designated as the ones having allegedly provided, or attempted to provide, financial, material, technological or other support for, or goods or services in support of the Centre for Progress and Development of Iran (CDPI) to purchase weapons, including&nbsp;man-portable air-defensive systems (MANPADS), UAV and ballistic missile components.&nbsp;<h2>US Economic Fury&nbsp;</h2>The US Treasury Department said that it continues to exert maximum pressure on Iran and target the nation's ability to generate, move, and repatriate funds. It claimed that their actions have disrupted billions in oil revenue, reduced Tehran's shadow banking networks, and frozen nearly half a billion dollars in cryptocurrency. It has warned that it will take action against Iran’s defence industrial base, any financial institutions that support &nbsp;Iranian commerce, airlines, including those connected to the People’s Republic of China’s independent “teapot” oil refineries.&nbsp;

The US imposed sanctions on 10 individuals and companies linked to Iran’s ballistic missile and UAV programs, targeting entities in China, Hong Kong, the UAE, Belarus, and Iran.

US have sanctioned 10 individuals and companies across five countries on Friday, May 8. It accused them of supporting Iran’s ballistic missile and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) program. Sanctions hit entities in China, Hong Kong, Dubai (UAE), Belarus, and Iran. These entities allegedly help Iran in procuring weapons components and aerospace-grade raw materials for the Shahed-series drones and Iran’s ballistic missile programs. “While the surviving IRGC leaders are trapped like rats in a sinking ship, the Treasury Department is unrelenting in our Economic Fury campaign,” said Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent. “Under President Trump’s decisive leadership, we will continue to act to keep America Safe and target foreign individuals and companies providing Iran’s military with weapons for use against U.S. forces.” Also Read: Trump warns of ‘Project Freedom Plus’ if Iran talks fail amid escalating Strait of Hormuz crisis Who are the sanctioned entities? According to the statement released by the US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), sanctioned entities include China-based Yushita Shanghai International Trade Co Ltd, Dubai-based Elite Energy FZCO (Elite Energy), Hong Kong-based AE International Trade Co Limited (AE International), Hong Kong-based HK Hesin Industry Co Limited (HK Hesin), Belarus-based Armory Alliance LLC (Armory Alliance), Belarus-based Iranian national Mohammadmahdi Maleki (Maleki), an employee of Armory Alliance, Belarussian national Mohammed Ali Tolibov (Tolibov) the chief executive officer of Armory Alliance, Hong Kong-based Mustad Limited, Iran-based Pishgam Electronic Safeh Company, China-based Hitex Insulation Ningbo Company Limited (Hitex), and Chinese national Li Genping the legal representative of Hitex and manages the company’s sales, purchasing, and financial operations. They are being designated as the ones having allegedly provided, or attempted to provide, financial, material, technological or other support for, or goods or services in support of the Centre for Progress and Development of Iran (CDPI) to purchase weapons, including man-portable air-defensive systems (MANPADS), UAV and ballistic missile components. US Economic Fury The US Treasury Department said that it continues to exert maximum pressure on Iran and target the nation's ability to generate, move, and repatriate funds. It claimed that their actions have disrupted billions in oil revenue, reduced Tehran's shadow banking networks, and frozen nearly half a billion dollars in cryptocurrency. It has warned that it will take action against Iran’s defence industrial base, any financial institutions that support Iranian commerce, airlines, including those connected to the People’s Republic of China’s independent “teapot” oil refineries.

The US imposed sanctions on 10 individuals and companies linked to Iran’s ballistic missile and UAV programs, targeting entities in China, Hong Kong, the UAE, Belarus, and Iran.

US sanctions 10 individuals, companies across 5 countries over Iran missile and drone program

New satellite imagery has revealed a suspected major oil spill near Iran’s Kharg Island, with analysts estimating that tens of thousands of barrels of oil may have leaked into the Persian Gulf amid the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the US, and Israel.&nbsp;Images captured between May 6 and May 8 by the European Union’s Copernicus Sentinel-1, Sentinel-2 and Sentinel-3 satellites showed a large grey and white slick stretching across waters west of Kharg Island, Iran’s principal oil export hub.&nbsp;Leon Moreland, a researcher at the Conflict and Environment Observatory, said the slick “appears visually consistent with oil” and estimated that it covered an area of around 45 square kilometres, Reuters reported. Louis Goddard, co-founder of consultancy Data Desk, which specialises in climate and commodities, also said the satellite imagery likely showed an oil slick. He added that it could be the largest such incident since the start of the US-Israel war against Iran around 70 days ago.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-expecting-iran-s-response-to-his-latest-peace-proposal-tonight-after-us-strikes-iranian-tankers-in-gulf-of-oman-1778288379577">Trump says expecting Iran's response to his latest peace proposal 'tonight,' even as US strikes Iranian tankers in Gulf of Oman</a>&nbsp;The exact cause of the potential spill remains unclear, and analysts have stated that the point of origin has not yet been identified. Moreland noted that imagery from May 8 showed no signs of additional active leaks. The US military and Iran’s mission to the United Nations in Geneva did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the satellite images.&nbsp;Kharg Island is a strategically significant facility for Tehran, handling nearly 90 per cent of Iran’s oil exports, much of which is shipped to China. Earlier in the conflict, US forces said they had struck military targets on the island. The reported spill comes amid heightened tensions in the Gulf, where US naval forces have been attempting to restrict Iranian tanker movements in and out of ports. Clashes between US and Iranian forces in the region have also intensified in recent weeks.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-ufo-files-uap-apollo-transcripts-distraction-theory-1778254013438">Did Trump just release UFO secrets- or the ultimate distraction?</a> &nbsp;

Satellite imagery revealed a 45-square-kilometre oil slick near Iran’s Kharg Island, a vital export hub. The suspected spill occurs amid ongoing US-Iran maritime clashes and high-stakes ceasefire negotiations.

New satellite imagery has revealed a suspected major oil spill near Iran’s Kharg Island, with analysts estimating that tens of thousands of barrels of oil may have leaked into the Persian Gulf amid the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the US, and Israel. Images captured between May 6 and May 8 by the European Union’s Copernicus Sentinel-1, Sentinel-2 and Sentinel-3 satellites showed a large grey and white slick stretching across waters west of Kharg Island, Iran’s principal oil export hub. Leon Moreland, a researcher at the Conflict and Environment Observatory, said the slick “appears visually consistent with oil” and estimated that it covered an area of around 45 square kilometres, Reuters reported. Louis Goddard, co-founder of consultancy Data Desk, which specialises in climate and commodities, also said the satellite imagery likely showed an oil slick. He added that it could be the largest such incident since the start of the US-Israel war against Iran around 70 days ago. Also read: Trump says expecting Iran's response to his latest peace proposal 'tonight,' even as US strikes Iranian tankers in Gulf of Oman The exact cause of the potential spill remains unclear, and analysts have stated that the point of origin has not yet been identified. Moreland noted that imagery from May 8 showed no signs of additional active leaks. The US military and Iran’s mission to the United Nations in Geneva did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the satellite images. Kharg Island is a strategically significant facility for Tehran, handling nearly 90 per cent of Iran’s oil exports, much of which is shipped to China. Earlier in the conflict, US forces said they had struck military targets on the island. The reported spill comes amid heightened tensions in the Gulf, where US naval forces have been attempting to restrict Iranian tanker movements in and out of ports. Clashes between US and Iranian forces in the region have also intensified in recent weeks. Also read: Did Trump just release UFO secrets- or the ultimate distraction?

Satellite imagery revealed a 45-square-kilometre oil slick near Iran’s Kharg Island, a vital export hub. The suspected spill occurs amid ongoing US-Iran maritime clashes and high-stakes ceasefire negotiations.

Massive oil spill off Iran’s Kharg Island? Satellite images show huge slick near key oil export hub

Tensions between the United States and Iran have escalated sharply as Washington confirms strikes on Iranian-linked vessels amid the ongoing conflict in the Gulf region. President Donald Trump has warned of even stronger retaliation if attacks continue, while diplomatic efforts for a ceasefire remain uncertain.

US-Iran War: US Opens Fire on Iranian Ships, Trump Warns of Even Violent Retaliation

The Pentagon on Friday (May 8) released video footage showing US forces striking and disabling two Iranian oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran despite an ongoing ceasefire negotiation process. According to the US military, American forces fired on the vessels after they allegedly attempted to breach a US-imposed blockade on Iranian ports. The footage released by the Pentagon reportedly shows the smokestacks of the two tankers being hit by an American fighter jet during the operation.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Footage of a US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet bombing the tanker Sevda as it attempted to run the US blockade on Iran. CENTCOM says that US forces struck and disabled a pair of tankers as they attempted to head for an Iranian port. <a href="https://t.co/iPqX670Hn3">pic.twitter.com/iPqX670Hn3</a>&mdash; OSINTtechnical (@Osinttechnical) <a href="https://twitter.com/Osinttechnical/status/2052790893967745217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-expecting-iran-s-response-to-his-latest-peace-proposal-tonight-after-us-strikes-iranian-tankers-in-gulf-of-oman-1778288379577">Trump says expecting Iran's response to his latest peace proposal 'tonight,' even as US strikes Iranian tankers in Gulf of Oman</a>&nbsp;The incident followed an overnight exchange of fire between US and Iranian forces and marks a significant escalation in the region, raising fresh concerns over global energy security and the stability of the fragile ceasefire between the two countries.The US and Iran have been engaged in tense negotiations over a month-old ceasefire agreement aimed at ending the ongoing conflict, reopening the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, and scaling back Iran’s disputed nuclear programme.&nbsp;Despite the latest military confrontation, Washington has maintained that the ceasefire remains in effect. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Friday that he expected “a serious offer” from Iran later in the day, indicating that diplomatic discussions were continuing. The US military also said its forces had earlier thwarted attacks on three Navy ships and carried out strikes on Iranian military facilities in the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;The waterway has remained largely blocked by Iran since the United States and Israel launched military operations on February 28, disrupting global energy supplies, pushing up fuel prices, and unsettling international markets. In response, Washington imposed its own blockade on Iranian ports, intensifying pressure on Tehran.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-blatant-violation-iran-accuses-us-of-ceasefire-breach-after-overnight-attacks-as-tehran-reports-fresh-clashes-in-hormuz-1778255462306">‘Blatant violation’: Iran accuses US of ceasefire breach after overnight attacks</a>&nbsp;In a separate development, the United Arab Emirates reported another Iranian missile and drone attack. The UAE Defence Ministry said three people were wounded after air defence systems engaged two ballistic missiles and three drones launched by Iran. Authorities said it remained unclear whether all the projectiles had been intercepted successfully.

The Pentagon released footage of US jets striking two Iranian tankers for breaching a blockade. Despite this escalation in the Strait of Hormuz, ceasefire negotiations between Washington and Tehran continue.

The Pentagon on Friday (May 8) released video footage showing US forces striking and disabling two Iranian oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran despite an ongoing ceasefire negotiation process. According to the US military, American forces fired on the vessels after they allegedly attempted to breach a US-imposed blockade on Iranian ports. The footage released by the Pentagon reportedly shows the smokestacks of the two tankers being hit by an American fighter jet during the operation.

The Pentagon released footage of US jets striking two Iranian tankers for breaching a blockade. Despite this escalation in the Strait of Hormuz, ceasefire negotiations between Washington and Tehran continue.

WATCH: Pentagon releases footage of US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet bombing 2 Iranian tankers in Hormuz

Donald Trump says he is expecting Iran’s response soon on a proposed agreement aimed at ending the ongoing conflict. The development comes amid rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and renewed attacks in the Gulf region. Washington hopes the proposal could pave the way for broader talks on Iran’s nuclear programme and a possible ceasefire after weeks of escalating hostilities.

Trump Expecting Iran Response Soon On Agreement To End War

US President Donald Trump on Friday (May 8) told reporters that he was expecting a letter from Iran on his latest peace proposal "tonight." The POTUS's statement comes as the Middle East conflict lurched through another volatile Friday, with a US fighter jet disabling two Iranian tankers in the Gulf of Oman. "I'm getting a letter supposedly tonight, so we'll see how that goes," Trump said, as Secretary of State Marco Rubio, speaking in Rome, expressed hope that Iran's response would be "a serious offer."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/missiles-and-deals-at-the-same-time-us-iran-war-and-peace-dichotomy-explained-through-history-1778225338623">Missiles and deals at the same time? US-Iran war and peace dichotomy explained through history</a><h2>US strikes Iranian tankers</h2>A US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet used precision munitions on two Iranian-flagged vessels in the Gulf of Oman, the gateway to the vital Strait of Hormuz, to prevent them from continuing toward Iran, US Central Command said. Iran's military, meanwhile, said that its navy had "responded to the violation of the ceasefire and to American terrorism with strikes," before adding that "the clashes have now ceased."<h2>Iran accuses the US of ceasefire violations</h2>Iran's UN envoy Amir Saeed Iravani, in a letter to the UN Secretary-General and Security Council, has accused Washington of ceasefire violations. Iran's foreign ministry said the US proposal on extending the truce was still "under review."On the diplomatic side, Qatar's prime minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, met Vice President JD Vance in Washington to discuss the Pakistani-led effort to broker a permanent settlement.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-why-speak-in-english-pakistan-s-bizarre-meltdown-over-india-s-operation-sindoor-press-conference-goes-viral-watch-1778233667496">'Why speak in English?': Pakistan's bizarre meltdown over India's Operation Sindoor press conference goes VIRAL | WATCH</a><h2>Oil slick off Kharg Island</h2>Satellite imagery shows an oil slick spreading off the coast of Kharg Island, Iran's primary oil export terminal, covering more than 20 square miles (52 square kilometres) according to global monitor Orbital EOS. The cause of the apparent spill was not immediately clear.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Trump says he expects Iran’s response to his latest peace proposal “tonight,” even as US forces struck two Iranian tankers in the Gulf of Oman in another sign of how diplomacy and confrontation remain tightly intertwined.

US President Donald Trump on Friday (May 8) told reporters that he was expecting a letter from Iran on his latest peace proposal "tonight." The POTUS's statement comes as the Middle East conflict lurched through another volatile Friday, with a US fighter jet disabling two Iranian tankers in the Gulf of Oman. "I'm getting a letter supposedly tonight, so we'll see how that goes," Trump said, as Secretary of State Marco Rubio, speaking in Rome, expressed hope that Iran's response would be "a serious offer." Also read | Missiles and deals at the same time? US-Iran war and peace dichotomy explained through history US strikes Iranian tankers A US Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet used precision munitions on two Iranian-flagged vessels in the Gulf of Oman, the gateway to the vital Strait of Hormuz, to prevent them from continuing toward Iran, US Central Command said. Iran's military, meanwhile, said that its navy had "responded to the violation of the ceasefire and to American terrorism with strikes," before adding that "the clashes have now ceased." Iran accuses the US of ceasefire violations Iran's UN envoy Amir Saeed Iravani, in a letter to the UN Secretary-General and Security Council, has accused Washington of ceasefire violations. Iran's foreign ministry said the US proposal on extending the truce was still "under review." On the diplomatic side, Qatar's prime minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, met Vice President JD Vance in Washington to discuss the Pakistani-led effort to broker a permanent settlement. Also read | 'Why speak in English?': Pakistan's bizarre meltdown over India's Operation Sindoor press conference goes VIRAL | WATCH Oil slick off Kharg Island Satellite imagery shows an oil slick spreading off the coast of Kharg Island, Iran's primary oil export terminal, covering more than 20 square miles (52 square kilometres) according to global monitor Orbital EOS. The cause of the apparent spill was not immediately clear. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Trump says he expects Iran’s response to his latest peace proposal “tonight,” even as US forces struck two Iranian tankers in the Gulf of Oman in another sign of how diplomacy and confrontation remain tightly intertwined.

Trump says expecting Iran's response to his latest peace proposal 'tonight,' even as US strikes Iranian tankers in Gulf of Oman

Iran on Friday (May 8) accused the United States of violating the ceasefire as both sides blamed each other for triggering overnight clashes in the Strait of Hormuz. This comes after Tehran’s military command said that Washington initiated the exchange of fire by attacking an Iranian oil tanker and another ship, adding that its forces “immediately and in retaliation attacked American military vessels.” Meanwhile, Iranian media reported fresh “sporadic clashes” with the US in Hormuz on Friday.“The action carried out last night was both a blatant violation of international law and a breach of the ceasefire,” foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said, as per the ISNA news agency.“At the same time, the country's defenders delivered a 'major slap' to the enemy and repelled the enemies’ aggression with full force,” he added.<h2>Iranian media reports fresh clashes</h2>Iran’s Fars news agency on Friday reported fresh “sporadic clashes” with the US naval forces in the Strait of Hormuz. “For the last hour, sporadic clashes have taken place between the Iranian armed forces and American vessels in the Strait of Hormuz,” it said.The US Central Command said that it struck and disabled two Iranian-flagged tankers, accusing them of attempting to violate the American naval blockade of Iran’s ports. Washington has now intercepted four ships that it said were attempting to violate the US restrictions, which have been in place since April 13.&nbsp;In a post on X, US Central Command said that the vessels, M/T Sea Star III and M/T Sevda, were entering an Iranian port on the Gulf of Oman. CENTCOM enforced blockade measures against the two unladen oil tankers, with F/A-18 Super Hornet from USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) disabling them after firing munitions.It added that US forces earlier disabled the Iranian-flagged M/T Hasna on May 6 when it attempted to move towards an Iranian port in the Gulf of Oman. The vessel was disabled with an F/A-18 Super Hornet from USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72).“All three vessels are no longer transiting to Iran,” CENTCOM said.Tensions have remained in the West Asian water despite a fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran, with both sides enforcing their blockades. Tehran has blocked the most crucial waterway, the Strait of Hormuz, triggering a global energy supply crisis. Meanwhile, peace talks remained stalled.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iran accused the US of violating the ceasefire after overnight clashes in the Strait of Hormuz amid rising naval tensions and tanker strikes.

Iran on Friday (May 8) accused the United States of violating the ceasefire as both sides blamed each other for triggering overnight clashes in the Strait of Hormuz. This comes after Tehran’s military command said that Washington initiated the exchange of fire by attacking an Iranian oil tanker and another ship, adding that its forces “immediately and in retaliation attacked American military vessels.” Meanwhile, Iranian media reported fresh “sporadic clashes” with the US in Hormuz on Friday. “The action carried out last night was both a blatant violation of international law and a breach of the ceasefire,” foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said, as per the ISNA news agency. “At the same time, the country's defenders delivered a 'major slap' to the enemy and repelled the enemies’ aggression with full force,” he added. Iranian media reports fresh clashes Iran’s Fars news agency on Friday reported fresh “sporadic clashes” with the US naval forces in the Strait of Hormuz. “For the last hour, sporadic clashes have taken place between the Iranian armed forces and American vessels in the Strait of Hormuz,” it said. The US Central Command said that it struck and disabled two Iranian-flagged tankers, accusing them of attempting to violate the American naval blockade of Iran’s ports. Washington has now intercepted four ships that it said were attempting to violate the US restrictions, which have been in place since April 13. In a post on X, US Central Command said that the vessels, M/T Sea Star III and M/T Sevda, were entering an Iranian port on the Gulf of Oman. CENTCOM enforced blockade measures against the two unladen oil tankers, with F/A-18 Super Hornet from USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) disabling them after firing munitions. It added that US forces earlier disabled the Iranian-flagged M/T Hasna on May 6 when it attempted to move towards an Iranian port in the Gulf of Oman. The vessel was disabled with an F/A-18 Super Hornet from USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). “All three vessels are no longer transiting to Iran,” CENTCOM said. Tensions have remained in the West Asian water despite a fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran, with both sides enforcing their blockades. Tehran has blocked the most crucial waterway, the Strait of Hormuz, triggering a global energy supply crisis. Meanwhile, peace talks remained stalled. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iran accused the US of violating the ceasefire after overnight clashes in the Strait of Hormuz amid rising naval tensions and tanker strikes.

‘Blatant violation’: Iran accuses US of ceasefire breach after overnight attacks as Tehran reports fresh clashes in Hormuz

US forces on Friday (May 8) struck and disabled two Iranian-flagged tankers, accusing them of attempting to violate the American naval blockade of Iran’s ports. Washington has now intercepted four ships that it said were attempting to violate the US restrictions, which have been in place since April 13. This comes as Iranian media reported fresh “sporadic clashes” with the US forces in the Strait of Hormuz.In a post on X, US Central Command said that the vessels, M/T Sea Star III and M/T Sevda, were entering an Iranian port on the Gulf of Oman. CENTCOM enforced blockade measures against the two unladen oil tankers, with F/A-18 Super Hornet from USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) disabling them after firing munitions.Footage below:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://t.co/rOZfFGtptY">https://t.co/rOZfFGtptY</a>&mdash; U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://twitter.com/CENTCOM/status/2052751945329242281?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) enforced blockade measures against two Iranian-flagged unladen oil tankers attempting to pull into an Iranian port on the Gulf of Oman. A U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet from USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) disabled both tankers after firing precision munitions into their smokestacks, preventing the non-compliant ships from entering Iran,” CENTCOM said in a statement.It added that US forces earlier disabled the Iranian-flagged M/T Hasna on May 6 when it attempted to move towards an Iranian port in the Gulf of Oman. The vessel was disabled with an F/A-18 Super Hornet from USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72).“All three vessels are no longer transiting to Iran,” it said.“U.S. forces in the Middle East remain committed to full enforcement of the blockade of vessels entering or leaving Iran,” said Adm. Brad Cooper, CENTCOM commander. “Our highly trained men and women in uniform are doing incredible work.” Since the blockade began, the US forces have disabled several vessels, while more than 50 have been redirected by the CENTCOM forces.Earlier on April 19, the American forces intercepted and seized the Iranian-flagged M/V Touska after it violated the blockade and ignored multiple warnings from a US destroyer.Tensions have remained in the West Asian water despite a fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran, with both sides enforcing their blockades. Tehran has blocked the most crucial waterway, the Strait of Hormuz, triggering a global energy supply crisis. Meanwhile, peace talks remained stalled.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

US Central Command said American forces disabled two Iranian tankers near the Gulf of Oman over blockade violations, amid rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.

US forces on Friday (May 8) struck and disabled two Iranian-flagged tankers, accusing them of attempting to violate the American naval blockade of Iran’s ports. Washington has now intercepted four ships that it said were attempting to violate the US restrictions, which have been in place since April 13. This comes as Iranian media reported fresh “sporadic clashes” with the US forces in the Strait of Hormuz. In a post on X, US Central Command said that the vessels, M/T Sea Star III and M/T Sevda, were entering an Iranian port on the Gulf of Oman. CENTCOM enforced blockade measures against the two unladen oil tankers, with F/A-18 Super Hornet from USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) disabling them after firing munitions. Footage below:

US Central Command said American forces disabled two Iranian tankers near the Gulf of Oman over blockade violations, amid rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.

US forces strike two Iranian vessels over blockade violation; CENTCOM releases footage | WATCH

Iran's Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi on Friday warned the US against any adventurism and claimed that Iran's missile inventory and launcher capacity actually stand at 120% compared to levels on February 28, 2024. He accused the US of sabotaging diplomatic solutions through military operations. In a social media post on the platform X, Araghchi warned that any “pressure tactic” will drag the US into a “quagmire”."Every time a diplomatic solution is on the table, the U.S. opts for a reckless military adventure. Is it a crude pressure tactic? Or the result of a spoiler once again duping POTUS into another quagmire?" read the post. This comes in direct contradiction of the Washington Post report that the US intelligence claims that Iran only retains 75 per cent of its prewar mobile launchers and 70 per cent of its missile stockpiles. He asserted that Iran maintains 1000 per cent readiness to defend its nation. “Whatever the causes, the outcome is the same: Iranians never bow to pressure,” he added.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Every time a diplomatic solution is on the table, the U.S. opts for a reckless military adventure. Is it a crude pressure tactic? Or the result of a spoiler once again duping POTUS into another quagmire? Whatever the causes, outcome is the same: Iranians never bow to pressure. <a href="https://t.co/ev7dMIebNB">pic.twitter.com/ev7dMIebNB</a>&mdash; Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) <a href="https://twitter.com/araghchi/status/2052703834888360089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-eisenhower-building-white-paint-preservation-backlash-1778239332767">Is Trump turning a historic Eisenhower tower into another White House? $7.5 million paint plan sparks backlash</a>The US and Iran are engaged in a diplomatic standoff and mutual blockade, following the initial US-Israel attacks on Iran. Iran has maintained its control over the vital naval chokepoint in the Strait of Hormuz and targets any “unauthorised” passage, while the US have put in effect its own blockade of Iranian ports in the Persian Gulf. Washington and Tehran are negotiating a US proposal for both sides to reach an agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and cease hostilities for 30 days. US secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington was expecting a response from Iran today to its proposal to end the war. Trump continues to swing between never having a deadline and a 24-hour ultimatum. President Trump’s latest ultimatum is a demand for Iran to sign a comprehensive "new deal" immediately.Earlier on Friday, the US Central Command claimed its forces were blocking 70 tankers from entering or leaving Iranian ports.“These commercial ships have the capacity to transport over 166 million barrels of Iranian oil worth an estimated $13 billion-plus,” it said in a post on X. The US Navy has blockaded Iran’s ports since April 13, choking off crucial revenues for the country that relies almost entirely on the Strait of Hormuz to export its oil. Approximately 15,000 ships, 200+ aircraft, and 20+ wraships are deployed in the blockade.&nbsp;

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi claimed Tehran’s missile inventory is now stronger than before the war as tensions with the US escalate over the Strait of Hormuz blockade.

Iran's Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi on Friday warned the US against any adventurism and claimed that Iran's missile inventory and launcher capacity actually stand at 120% compared to levels on February 28, 2024. He accused the US of sabotaging diplomatic solutions through military operations. In a social media post on the platform X, Araghchi warned that any “pressure tactic” will drag the US into a “quagmire”. "Every time a diplomatic solution is on the table, the U.S. opts for a reckless military adventure. Is it a crude pressure tactic? Or the result of a spoiler once again duping POTUS into another quagmire?" read the post. This comes in direct contradiction of the Washington Post report that the US intelligence claims that Iran only retains 75 per cent of its prewar mobile launchers and 70 per cent of its missile stockpiles. He asserted that Iran maintains 1000 per cent readiness to defend its nation. “Whatever the causes, the outcome is the same: Iranians never bow to pressure,” he added.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi claimed Tehran’s missile inventory is now stronger than before the war as tensions with the US escalate over the Strait of Hormuz blockade.

Is Iran stronger than before the war? Tehran claims missile stockpile now at 120% amid US blockade

Iran is trying to formalise its control over the Strait of Hormuz; it has created a new Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA) to govern the day-to-day operations of the strait. This PGSA would oversee a structured transit plan for vessels and have circulated a form called the “Vessel Information Declaration,” which must be completed by all vessels to complete safe transit.&nbsp;The document obtained by Lloyd List was first reported by the CNN, marking a shift from free transit to the era of paid passage. The introduction of transit fees or tolls could drastically increase the cost of transporting energy and goods, impacting international markets. This also opens the scope for the establishment of a land-based Eurasian trade bloc, which would serve as a strategic bypass to maritime chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-us-iran-peace-proposal-hormuz-uranium-deal-1778215534873">Trump says US-Iran peace proposal is ‘more than a one-page offer’ claims Iran will hand over enriched Uranium</a>Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy said Wednesday that ships are complying with new transit regulations set by Tehran in the Strait of Hormuz. In a post on the US social media platform X, the IRGC Navy said the cooperation of vessels was contributing to regional maritime security. This came just after the US tried its so-called “Project Freedom” to escort vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. IRGC mentioned in the post that “safe and stable passage” through the Strait of Hormuz would be ensured under what it described as new protocols after “threats by the aggressor” have been neutralised. It further asserted that all vessels trying to pass through the Strait of Hormuz must use the previously announced corridor for safe passage.&nbsp;This is not an administration that operates based on a policy process. It operates based on impulse. The president seems now both tired of this war and reluctant to continue investing his political capital into it," said Ali Vaez, Iran Director, International Crisis Group. On Wednesday, Iran's Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, in a telegram post, called for a “new regional and global order under the strategy of a strong Iran”.“Foreigners who come from thousands of kilometres away, acting maliciously out of greed, have no place there, except at the bottom of its waters,” the statement added.

Iran has created a new Persian Gulf Strait Authority to regulate vessel movement through the Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns over transit fees, global trade disruption and escalating US-Iran tensions.

Iran is trying to formalise its control over the Strait of Hormuz; it has created a new Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA) to govern the day-to-day operations of the strait. This PGSA would oversee a structured transit plan for vessels and have circulated a form called the “Vessel Information Declaration,” which must be completed by all vessels to complete safe transit. The document obtained by Lloyd List was first reported by the CNN, marking a shift from free transit to the era of paid passage. The introduction of transit fees or tolls could drastically increase the cost of transporting energy and goods, impacting international markets. This also opens the scope for the establishment of a land-based Eurasian trade bloc, which would serve as a strategic bypass to maritime chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz. Also Read: Trump says US-Iran peace proposal is ‘more than a one-page offer’ claims Iran will hand over enriched Uranium Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy said Wednesday that ships are complying with new transit regulations set by Tehran in the Strait of Hormuz. In a post on the US social media platform X, the IRGC Navy said the cooperation of vessels was contributing to regional maritime security. This came just after the US tried its so-called “Project Freedom” to escort vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. IRGC mentioned in the post that “safe and stable passage” through the Strait of Hormuz would be ensured under what it described as new protocols after “threats by the aggressor” have been neutralised. It further asserted that all vessels trying to pass through the Strait of Hormuz must use the previously announced corridor for safe passage. This is not an administration that operates based on a policy process. It operates based on impulse. The president seems now both tired of this war and reluctant to continue investing his political capital into it," said Ali Vaez, Iran Director, International Crisis Group. On Wednesday, Iran's Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, in a telegram post, called for a “new regional and global order under the strategy of a strong Iran”.“Foreigners who come from thousands of kilometres away, acting maliciously out of greed, have no place there, except at the bottom of its waters,” the statement added.

Iran has created a new Persian Gulf Strait Authority to regulate vessel movement through the Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns over transit fees, global trade disruption and escalating US-Iran tensions.

Iran creates new Persian Gulf Strait Authority to formalise control of Hormuz

The United States and Iran are once again doing something that, on paper, sounds impossible: talking peace while flirting with open conflict. Even as US President Donald Trump hints that a diplomatic breakthrough may be within reach, the Strait of Hormuz is looking increasingly like a war zone. "We've had very good talks over the last 24 hours, and it's very possible that we'll make a deal," Trump told reporters on Wednesday (May 6), and just a day later, on Thursday (May 7), Iran attacked three American warships in the Strait of Hormuz.So, what's going on? Even as naval clashes, missile exchanges, drone threats, commercial shipping disruptions continue, there are talks of a deal. How can these contradictory things be possible? Contradictory? Maybe. Unprecedented? Not even close. History may have the answer.<h2>Iran and US: A relationship marked with diplomacy and discord</h2>If history says anything about US-Iran relations, it is this: diplomacy and confrontation are often not opposites. In this relationship, they frequently happen together. Let's examine history.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-dismisses-iranian-attack-on-three-us-warships-as-a-trifle-insists-ceasefire-still-in-place-1778205065513">Trump dismisses Iranian attack on three US warships in Strait of Hormuz as 'a trifle,' insists ceasefire still in place</a><h2>The 1980s proved it first</h2>The clearest parallel comes from the Iran-Iraq War era, specifically the Tanker War of the 1980s.Back then, as Iran and Iraq attacked oil tankers across the Gulf, the United States entered the fray under Operation Earnest Will, escorting Kuwaiti tankers and directly confronting Iranian naval tactics. Iran used mines, swarm boats and asymmetric harassment. Washington retaliated hard, most dramatically in 1988’s Operation Praying Mantis after the USS Samuel B. Roberts struck an Iranian mine.American and Iranian forces were actively clashing at sea. And yet, even then, diplomacy never fully stopped. Behind the scenes, covert US-Iran contacts continued through what later exploded into the Iran-Contra scandal. What happened? Public hostility and private negotiations; in the same timeline.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ka-h-on-the-rocks-revealed-fbi-director-kash-patel-handing-out-personalised-bourbon-bottles-while-suing-over-claims-he-drinks-too-much-1778147292386">Ka$h on the rocks? REVEALED! FBI Director Kash Patel handing out personalised bourbon bottles while suing over claims he drinks too much</a><h2>This pattern did not end there</h2>The pattern resurfaced earlier this century, after 9/11, when Iran quietly cooperated with the US against the Taliban in Afghanistan even as mistrust remained deep.It appeared again during the Iraq Proxy War, when Iranian-backed militias like Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq used sophisticated Iranian-made explosives (EFPs) to target US military vehicles, causing hundreds of American casualties, while diplomats from both sides still held talks in Baghdad (2007) over regional stability.This is the pattern: fight, negotiate, pressure, bargain.<h2>2026 looks familiar</h2>Today's crisis appears to be following that same script. President Donald Trump says a deal is "very possible" after what he described as "very good talks," even as naval skirmishes and military posturing continue in the Gulf. Reports of a possible truce suggest diplomacy is active, even while both sides continue projecting strength.<h2>The real lesson</h2>When it comes to Washington and Tehran, military escalation does not always mean diplomacy is dead. Sometimes, paradoxically, it means diplomacy is being sharpened.The Strait of Hormuz may look like a battlefield right now. But history suggests sea clashes and peace talks are not mutually exclusive. For the US and Iran, they may simply be two sides of the same negotiation.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos. &nbsp;

US-Iran diplomacy can look absurd from the outside: missiles in Hormuz, peace talks in parallel. But history shows this is not a contradiction, it’s a pattern. From the Tanker War to Iraq, Washington and Tehran have often fought publicly while negotiating privately. Let's look at history.

The United States and Iran are once again doing something that, on paper, sounds impossible: talking peace while flirting with open conflict. Even as US President Donald Trump hints that a diplomatic breakthrough may be within reach, the Strait of Hormuz is looking increasingly like a war zone. "We've had very good talks over the last 24 hours, and it's very possible that we'll make a deal," Trump told reporters on Wednesday (May 6), and just a day later, on Thursday (May 7), Iran attacked three American warships in the Strait of Hormuz. So, what's going on? Even as naval clashes, missile exchanges, drone threats, commercial shipping disruptions continue, there are talks of a deal. How can these contradictory things be possible? Contradictory? Maybe. Unprecedented? Not even close. History may have the answer. Iran and US: A relationship marked with diplomacy and discord If history says anything about US-Iran relations, it is this: diplomacy and confrontation are often not opposites. In this relationship, they frequently happen together. Let's examine history. Also read | Trump dismisses Iranian attack on three US warships in Strait of Hormuz as 'a trifle,' insists ceasefire still in place The 1980s proved it first The clearest parallel comes from the Iran-Iraq War era, specifically the Tanker War of the 1980s. Back then, as Iran and Iraq attacked oil tankers across the Gulf, the United States entered the fray under Operation Earnest Will, escorting Kuwaiti tankers and directly confronting Iranian naval tactics. Iran used mines, swarm boats and asymmetric harassment. Washington retaliated hard, most dramatically in 1988’s Operation Praying Mantis after the USS Samuel B. Roberts struck an Iranian mine. American and Iranian forces were actively clashing at sea. And yet, even then, diplomacy never fully stopped. Behind the scenes, covert US-Iran contacts continued through what later exploded into the Iran-Contra scandal. What happened? Public hostility and private negotiations; in the same timeline. Also read | Ka$h on the rocks? REVEALED! FBI Director Kash Patel handing out personalised bourbon bottles while suing over claims he drinks too much This pattern did not end there The pattern resurfaced earlier this century, after 9/11, when Iran quietly cooperated with the US against the Taliban in Afghanistan even as mistrust remained deep. It appeared again during the Iraq Proxy War, when Iranian-backed militias like Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq used sophisticated Iranian-made explosives (EFPs) to target US military vehicles, causing hundreds of American casualties, while diplomats from both sides still held talks in Baghdad (2007) over regional stability. This is the pattern: fight, negotiate, pressure, bargain. 2026 looks familiar Today's crisis appears to be following that same script. President Donald Trump says a deal is "very possible" after what he described as "very good talks," even as naval skirmishes and military posturing continue in the Gulf. Reports of a possible truce suggest diplomacy is active, even while both sides continue projecting strength. The real lesson When it comes to Washington and Tehran, military escalation does not always mean diplomacy is dead. Sometimes, paradoxically, it means diplomacy is being sharpened. The Strait of Hormuz may look like a battlefield right now. But history suggests sea clashes and peace talks are not mutually exclusive. For the US and Iran, they may simply be two sides of the same negotiation. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

US-Iran diplomacy can look absurd from the outside: missiles in Hormuz, peace talks in parallel. But history shows this is not a contradiction, it’s a pattern. From the Tanker War to Iraq, Washington and Tehran have often fought publicly while negotiating privately. Let's look at history.

Missiles and deals at the same time? US-Iran war and peace dichotomy explained through history

US President Donald Trump asserted that the US proposal aimed at ending the war with Iran is not just a “one-page offer” but rather a detailed roadmap to end the war. Trump challenged the characterisation of the proposal, saying that it's “more than a one-page offer” and adding some of the previously deliberated specifics regarding the deal, such as enriched uranium.&nbsp;"They have agreed. When they agree, it doesn't mean much because the next day they forget they agreed," he said, further noting, “And you know, we're dealing with different sets of leaders.” On Thursday, both Iranian media IRNA and the NYT reported that a “one-page offer” was in place for both sides to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and end hostilities for 30 days while they try to reach a comprehensive deal. The report also concluded that Tehran is reviewing the “messages” from the US that are being delivered through Pakistani intermediaries and has yet to formalise a conclusion or convey any response to Americans.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-project-freedom-oil-prices-iran-deal-markets-1778072517735">Donald Trump pauses Project Freedom, oil dips below $100 before rebound</a><h2>Key components of the detailed proposal</h2>The three senior Iranian officials attributed by the NYT, who chose to remain anonymous when discussing sensitive diplomatic issues, said that Iran would agree to dilution of some of the enriched uranium while transferring the rest of the uranium to a third country, possibly Russia and suspend enrichment for 15-20 years. However, they said that American negotiators continue to insist that Iran agreed in principle to hand over the stockpile to the United States and close three nuclear facilities and suspend enrichment for 20 years. Further, both nations will continue to lift their blockades on the naval chokepoint within 30 days. In exchange, the US would lift specific sanctions, release billions of dollars in frozen funds and permanently end hostilities in the region.&nbsp;However, the optimism is being countered by the continued escalation of the threat between the two sides. Earlier, Trump confirmed the exchange of fire between American and Iranian naval forces in the Strait of Hormuz amid the ceasefire agreement between the two sides, with reports of a strike in Iran's Qeshm Port and Bandar Abbas.&nbsp;&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump said the proposal to end the Iran war is a detailed roadmap, not a “one-page offer,” as talks over uranium, sanctions and the Strait of Hormuz continue.

US President Donald Trump asserted that the US proposal aimed at ending the war with Iran is not just a “one-page offer” but rather a detailed roadmap to end the war. Trump challenged the characterisation of the proposal, saying that it's “more than a one-page offer” and adding some of the previously deliberated specifics regarding the deal, such as enriched uranium. "They have agreed. When they agree, it doesn't mean much because the next day they forget they agreed," he said, further noting, “And you know, we're dealing with different sets of leaders.” On Thursday, both Iranian media IRNA and the NYT reported that a “one-page offer” was in place for both sides to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and end hostilities for 30 days while they try to reach a comprehensive deal. The report also concluded that Tehran is reviewing the “messages” from the US that are being delivered through Pakistani intermediaries and has yet to formalise a conclusion or convey any response to Americans. Also read: Donald Trump pauses Project Freedom, oil dips below $100 before rebound Key components of the detailed proposal The three senior Iranian officials attributed by the NYT, who chose to remain anonymous when discussing sensitive diplomatic issues, said that Iran would agree to dilution of some of the enriched uranium while transferring the rest of the uranium to a third country, possibly Russia and suspend enrichment for 15-20 years. However, they said that American negotiators continue to insist that Iran agreed in principle to hand over the stockpile to the United States and close three nuclear facilities and suspend enrichment for 20 years. Further, both nations will continue to lift their blockades on the naval chokepoint within 30 days. In exchange, the US would lift specific sanctions, release billions of dollars in frozen funds and permanently end hostilities in the region. However, the optimism is being countered by the continued escalation of the threat between the two sides. Earlier, Trump confirmed the exchange of fire between American and Iranian naval forces in the Strait of Hormuz amid the ceasefire agreement between the two sides, with reports of a strike in Iran's Qeshm Port and Bandar Abbas.

US President Donald Trump said the proposal to end the Iran war is a detailed roadmap, not a “one-page offer,” as talks over uranium, sanctions and the Strait of Hormuz continue.

Trump says US-Iran peace proposal is ‘more than a one-page offer’ claims Iran will hand over enriched Uranium

Satellites have captured suspicious activities at a secret Iranian site at Mount Pickaxe, south of the Natanz nuclear facility. Photos taken by satellite imaging company Airbus Defence and Space, and analysed by the Institute for Science and International Security, show movements in the region from as early as April 22. According to a report, special soil is blocking the two eastern tunnel entrances of the underground complex to prevent vehicles from accessing them. However, this was not the case in earlier images. On April 1, the tunnel entrances were open. The image analysis further showed that the tunnel openings at both ends are not fully concealed. The material used is basically just blocking them enough to prevent the rapid entry or exit of vehicles from the underground complex. To gain access, heavy machinery would need to de deployed to remove the material, according to a report by Ynetnews.&nbsp;The institute said that there is "no evidence of such blocking at the two western tunnel entrances". It added, "This activity raises significant questions, as this is a tunnel complex buried deep underground that could be used to protect valuable equipment or materials." The researchers had previously pointed out that the old tunnel entrances had been reinforced with concrete, suggesting something was likely placed inside the tunnels.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-we-ll-knock-them-out-a-lot-harder-trump-threatens-more-iran-strikes-if-deal-not-signed-fast-1778194543648">'We'll knock them out a lot harder': Trump threatens more Iran strikes if deal not signed ‘fast’</a><h2>Iran war ceasefire latest&nbsp;</h2> Even though the US-Iran ceasefire remains in effect on paper, fire continues to be exchanged in the Strait of Hormuz. On Thursday, Iran accused the US ⁠of violating the ceasefire by targeting two ships in ⁠the Strait and attacking civilian areas. An oil tanker travelling from Jask towards the Strait of Hormuz and another vessel near the UAE’s Fujairah port came under fire, a spokesman for Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya military headquarters claimed. Meanwhile, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said that it struck Iranian military infrastructure linked to attacks on US naval forces. It said that it specifically targeted missile and drone launch sites, command centres, and surveillance nodes. In response, Tehran hit three US Navy destroyers as they passed through the Strait of Hormuz. US President Donald Trump claimed that the American forces destroyed the attackers. “They were completely destroyed along with numerous small boats, which are being used to take the place of their fully decapitated Navy,” he wrote on Truth Social.&nbsp;https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-tehran-imposes-new-rules-for-hormuz-passage-1778210990842/embed<h2>Where is Mojtaba Khamenei?</h2> Iran confirmed that Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is “wisely” overseeing all national affairs, and that all state actions are happening only after direct approval from the Ayatollah. However, he is yet to be seen in public since news emerged that he was gravely injured in the February 28 attack on the palace that killed his father, Ali Khamenei.&nbsp;

Satellite imagery from a secret Iranian site at Mount Pickaxe near the  Natanz nuclear facility points to suspicious movement. An analysis showed that the two eastern tunnel entrances are blocked, which wasn't the case around April 1.

Satellites have captured suspicious activities at a secret Iranian site at Mount Pickaxe, south of the Natanz nuclear facility. Photos taken by satellite imaging company Airbus Defence and Space, and analysed by the Institute for Science and International Security, show movements in the region from as early as April 22. According to a report, special soil is blocking the two eastern tunnel entrances of the underground complex to prevent vehicles from accessing them. However, this was not the case in earlier images. On April 1, the tunnel entrances were open. The image analysis further showed that the tunnel openings at both ends are not fully concealed. The material used is basically just blocking them enough to prevent the rapid entry or exit of vehicles from the underground complex. To gain access, heavy machinery would need to de deployed to remove the material, according to a report by Ynetnews. The institute said that there is "no evidence of such blocking at the two western tunnel entrances". It added, "This activity raises significant questions, as this is a tunnel complex buried deep underground that could be used to protect valuable equipment or materials." The researchers had previously pointed out that the old tunnel entrances had been reinforced with concrete, suggesting something was likely placed inside the tunnels. Also Read: 'We'll knock them out a lot harder': Trump threatens more Iran strikes if deal not signed ‘fast’ Iran war ceasefire latest Even though the US-Iran ceasefire remains in effect on paper, fire continues to be exchanged in the Strait of Hormuz. On Thursday, Iran accused the US ⁠of violating the ceasefire by targeting two ships in ⁠the Strait and attacking civilian areas. An oil tanker travelling from Jask towards the Strait of Hormuz and another vessel near the UAE’s Fujairah port came under fire, a spokesman for Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya military headquarters claimed. Meanwhile, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said that it struck Iranian military infrastructure linked to attacks on US naval forces. It said that it specifically targeted missile and drone launch sites, command centres, and surveillance nodes. In response, Tehran hit three US Navy destroyers as they passed through the Strait of Hormuz. US President Donald Trump claimed that the American forces destroyed the attackers. “They were completely destroyed along with numerous small boats, which are being used to take the place of their fully decapitated Navy,” he wrote on Truth Social. https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-iran-war-tehran-imposes-new-rules-for-hormuz-passage-1778210990842/embed Where is Mojtaba Khamenei? Iran confirmed that Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is “wisely” overseeing all national affairs, and that all state actions are happening only after direct approval from the Ayatollah. However, he is yet to be seen in public since news emerged that he was gravely injured in the February 28 attack on the palace that killed his father, Ali Khamenei.

Satellite imagery from a secret Iranian site at Mount Pickaxe near the &nbsp;Natanz nuclear facility points to suspicious movement. An analysis showed that the two eastern tunnel entrances are blocked, which wasn't the case around April 1.

Satellite images show mysterious movement at Iranian site near Natanz nuclear facility: Report

US President Donald Trump has described recent US strikes on Iranian targets as a “love tap,” downplaying the intensity of the military exchange amid escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. His remarks come after reports of missile, drone, and naval confrontations between US and Iranian forces, with both sides claiming defensive action.


US-Iran War: Trump Describes Strikes On Iran As 'Love Tap' 

Iran has reportedly introduced new rules for vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, tightening control over one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes. According to reports, Tehran’s newly established maritime authority is requiring ships to submit detailed information and obtain prior authorization before transit.

US-Iran War: Tehran Imposes New Rules for Hormuz Passage 

The United States has said it carried out retaliatory strikes against Iranian targets following an attack on American warships in the Strait of Hormuz. According to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), Iranian forces launched missiles, drones, and small boats at three U.S. Navy destroyers, but all incoming threats were intercepted and no American vessels were hit. 


US-Iran War: US Says It Struck Iran After Attack on American Warships

President Donald Trump on Thursday (May 7) claimed American forces destroyed Iranian attackers targeting three US Navy destroyers as they passed through the Strait of Hormuz, while warning Tehran of harsher retaliation if it refuses to sign a deal soon. “Three World Class American Destroyers just transited, very successfully, out of the Strait of Hormuz, under fire. There was no damage done to the three Destroyers, but great damage done to the Iranian attackers,” Trump wrote in a Truth Social post.&nbsp;“They were completely destroyed along with numerous small boats, which are being used to take the place of their fully decapitated Navy,” Trump added. “Missiles were shot at our Destroyers, and were easily knocked down. Likewise, drones came, and were incinerated while in the air,” Trump continued. “Likewise, drones came, and were incinerated while in the air. They dropped ever so beautifully down to the Ocean, very much like a butterfly dropping to its grave!”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-war-tehran-accuses-us-of-violating-ceasefire-with-attack-on-ships-in-strait-of-hormuz-1778190339228">US-Iran war: Tehran accuses US of violating ceasefire with attack on ships in Strait of Hormuz</a>

The president further warned Iran against escalating tensions, writing that “if they had the chance to use a Nuclear Weapon, they would do it, without question, But they’ll never have that opportunity and, just like we knocked them out again today, we’ll knock them out a lot harder, and a lot more violently, in the future, if they don’t get their Deal signed, FAST!”&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bengaluru-emerges-as-india-s-cybercrime-capital-in-new-ncrb-report-1778183958841/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/bengaluru-emerges-as-india-s-cybercrime-capital-in-new-ncrb-report-1778183958841/embed</a>&nbsp;Trump’s remarks came after the United States Central Command said US forces struck Iranian military facilities responsible for launching what it described as “unprovoked” missile, drone, and small boat attacks against American warships transiting the strait.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

President Donald Trump claimed US forces destroyed Iranian attackers after American destroyers came under fire in the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions with Iran and warning of stronger military retaliation if Tehran refuses to sign a deal

President Donald Trump on Thursday (May 7) claimed American forces destroyed Iranian attackers targeting three US Navy destroyers as they passed through the Strait of Hormuz, while warning Tehran of harsher retaliation if it refuses to sign a deal soon. “Three World Class American Destroyers just transited, very successfully, out of the Strait of Hormuz, under fire. There was no damage done to the three Destroyers, but great damage done to the Iranian attackers,” Trump wrote in a Truth Social post. “They were completely destroyed along with numerous small boats, which are being used to take the place of their fully decapitated Navy,” Trump added. “Missiles were shot at our Destroyers, and were easily knocked down. Likewise, drones came, and were incinerated while in the air,” Trump continued. “Likewise, drones came, and were incinerated while in the air. They dropped ever so beautifully down to the Ocean, very much like a butterfly dropping to its grave!” Also Read: US-Iran war: Tehran accuses US of violating ceasefire with attack on ships in Strait of Hormuz

US President Trump says US forces destroyed Iranian attackers targeting Navy destroyers in the Strait of Hormuz, warning Tehran of tougher retaliation

'We'll knock them out a lot harder': Trump threatens more Iran strikes if deal not signed 'fast'

Iran’s central military command accused the United States of violating the ceasefire in the Middle East conflict by launching attacks on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, claiming Iranian forces retaliated by targeting American military ships. "The US targeted an Iranian oil tanker moving from the coastal waters of Iran in the Jask region towards the Strait of Hormuz, as well as another ship entering the Strait of Hormuz opposite the port of Fujairah, UAE”, the Khatam Al Anbiya headquarters said in a statement carried by state television. It also accused Washington of carrying out additional strikes elsewhere in southern Iran in cooperation with some countries in the region.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-warning-to-eu-ratify-trade-agreement-by-july-4-or-face-much-higher-tariffs-1778183775741">Trump's warning to EU: Ratify trade agreement by July 4 or face 'much higher' tariffs</a>&nbsp;"Iranian forces immediately and in retaliation attacked American military vessels”, the statement added. Meanwhile, the United States said it carried out strikes on Iranian military targets on Thursday after Tehran’s forces allegedly attacked three American destroyers transiting through the Strait of Hormuz. “Iranian forces launched multiple missiles, drones, and small boats” at the three US warships, though none of the vessels were hit, the US military’s Central Command said in a post on X.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rat-poison-found-in-watermelon-consumed-by-mumbai-family-of-four-before-deaths-1778178583674/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/rat-poison-found-in-watermelon-consumed-by-mumbai-family-of-four-before-deaths-1778178583674/embed</a>&nbsp;"US forces eliminated inbound threats and targeted Iranian military facilities responsible,” for the attack, it added. The fresh exchange of accusations has raised fears of renewed escalation in one of the world’s most strategically important maritime routes.&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Iran accused the US of violating the Middle East ceasefire after strikes near the Strait of Hormuz, while Washington claimed Iranian forces attacked American destroyers with missiles, drones and boats

Iran’s central military command accused the United States of violating the ceasefire in the Middle East conflict by launching attacks on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, claiming Iranian forces retaliated by targeting American military ships. "The US targeted an Iranian oil tanker moving from the coastal waters of Iran in the Jask region towards the Strait of Hormuz, as well as another ship entering the Strait of Hormuz opposite the port of Fujairah, UAE”, the Khatam Al Anbiya headquarters said in a statement carried by state television. It also accused Washington of carrying out additional strikes elsewhere in southern Iran in cooperation with some countries in the region. Also Read: Trump's warning to EU: Ratify trade agreement by July 4 or face 'much higher' tariffs "Iranian forces immediately and in retaliation attacked American military vessels”, the statement added. Meanwhile, the United States said it carried out strikes on Iranian military targets on Thursday after Tehran’s forces allegedly attacked three American destroyers transiting through the Strait of Hormuz. “Iranian forces launched multiple missiles, drones, and small boats” at the three US warships, though none of the vessels were hit, the US military’s Central Command said in a post on X. https://www.wionews.com/videos/rat-poison-found-in-watermelon-consumed-by-mumbai-family-of-four-before-deaths-1778178583674/embed "US forces eliminated inbound threats and targeted Iranian military facilities responsible,” for the attack, it added. The fresh exchange of accusations has raised fears of renewed escalation in one of the world’s most strategically important maritime routes. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Iran has accused the US of breaching the ceasefire in the Strait of Hormuz, while Washington said it struck Tehran after attacks on US destroyers

US-Iran war: Tehran accuses US of violating ceasefire with attack on ships in Strait of Hormuz

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday (May 7) said that he had met with Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, who has not made any public appearance since he was appointed as the head of the Islamic Republic. Several theories and rumours have circulated over his health and condition since he was named supreme leader, with many reports suggesting that he had been wounded in the US-Israeli strikes that killed his father.In a video message broadcast by the state television, the Iranian president claimed that he met with the Supreme Leader, without revealing when or where their meeting took place.“What struck me most during this meeting was the vision and the humble and sincere approach of the supreme leader of the Islamic revolution,” Pezeshkian said in the video.Where is Mojtaba Khamenei?The whereabouts of the new Iranian Supreme Leader have remained unknown since the war began on February 28, when the US and Israel launched strikes on Iran. In the attack, former supreme leader Ali Khamenei was killed. Earlier this month, an Iranian official confirmed that Mojtaba was present in a building that was bombed during the Iran war, but dismissed rumours surrounding his absence from public view. He also said that he was in “perfect health and is actively managing affairs.”Qomi, as per a Fars News agency report, confirmed that Mojtaba Khamenei was in a building that was bombed earlier during the conflict that started on February 28. However, he claimed that minutes before the building was decimated by an airstrike, Mojtaba had walked into the courtyard, which ultimately led to his survival.According to a New York Times report, the Iranian leader was “gravely wounded” but is “mentally sharp”. It added that Mojtaba is facing critical medical conditions after surviving bombings that killed his father, wife and son. It added that access to him is “extremely difficult and limited” as a team of doctors treat his injuries sustained in the airstrikes. Reportedly, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, who is also a heart surgeon and the minister of health, have been involved in his care. Even senior IRGC and government officials do not visit him, fearing his location may be traced by Israel.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said he met Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, amid rumours over his health and absence from public view.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday (May 7) said that he had met with Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, who has not made any public appearance since he was appointed as the head of the Islamic Republic. Several theories and rumours have circulated over his health and condition since he was named supreme leader, with many reports suggesting that he had been wounded in the US-Israeli strikes that killed his father. In a video message broadcast by the state television, the Iranian president claimed that he met with the Supreme Leader, without revealing when or where their meeting took place. “What struck me most during this meeting was the vision and the humble and sincere approach of the supreme leader of the Islamic revolution,” Pezeshkian said in the video. Where is Mojtaba Khamenei? The whereabouts of the new Iranian Supreme Leader have remained unknown since the war began on February 28, when the US and Israel launched strikes on Iran. In the attack, former supreme leader Ali Khamenei was killed. Earlier this month, an Iranian official confirmed that Mojtaba was present in a building that was bombed during the Iran war, but dismissed rumours surrounding his absence from public view. He also said that he was in “perfect health and is actively managing affairs.” Qomi, as per a Fars News agency report, confirmed that Mojtaba Khamenei was in a building that was bombed earlier during the conflict that started on February 28. However, he claimed that minutes before the building was decimated by an airstrike, Mojtaba had walked into the courtyard, which ultimately led to his survival. According to a New York Times report, the Iranian leader was “gravely wounded” but is “mentally sharp”. It added that Mojtaba is facing critical medical conditions after surviving bombings that killed his father, wife and son. It added that access to him is “extremely difficult and limited” as a team of doctors treat his injuries sustained in the airstrikes. Reportedly, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, who is also a heart surgeon and the minister of health, have been involved in his care. Even senior IRGC and government officials do not visit him, fearing his location may be traced by Israel. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said he met Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, amid rumours over his health and absence from public view.

Where is Mojtaba Khamenei? Iran’s President Pezeshkian claims he met Supreme Leader

The Washington Post has reported, based on satellite imagery analysis, that Iranian airstrikes damaged or destroyed at least 228 structures or pieces of equipment at American military sites across the Gulf region since the war began on February 28, a number far bigger than what the US government has acknowledged. The investigative report said 15 US military sites across Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan and the UAE were hit.&nbsp;<h2>Investigators reviewed more than 100 high-resolution satellite images</h2>Satellite images from Iranian state-affiliated media, 109 images and data from the EU’s Copernicus satellite system and commercial imagery were analysed. WaPo reporters identified 10 more damaged or destroyed structures independently using satellite images. The report documented damage to 217 structures and 11 pieces of equipment.The strikes damaged hangars, barracks, fuel depots, aircraft, radar systems, communications infrastructure and air defence equipment, it added. Seven US service members died in attacks on the regional bases: six in Kuwait and one in Saudi Arabia, while more than 400 troops were injured by late April, of which 12 are serious.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-foreigners-have-no-place-in-gulf-except-at-the-bottom-of-its-waters-says-mojtaba-khamenei-in-menacing-warning-to-us-1777550052404">‘Foreigners have no place in Gulf, except at the bottom of its waters,’ says Mojtaba Khamenei in menacing warning to US</a><h2>How hard did Iran hit American facilities in the Gulf?</h2>The report claimed that more than half of all documented damages occurred at the US 5th Fleet headquarters in Bahrain and three major US facilities in Kuwait. Iran hit and damaged fuel bladders, Patriot missile defence systems and radomes at Ali al-Salem Air Base in Kuwait. At Camp Arifjan and Camp Buehring in Kuwait, the Iranian attacks hit barracks, power infrastructure and operational facilities. Satellite communications infrastructure was damaged at Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar and US naval facilities in Bahrain. At Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, an E-3 Sentry command aircraft and a refuelling tanker were reportedly destroyed. Also damaged were THAAD missile defence systems in Jordan and the UAE.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-denies-attack-claims-on-uae-israel-prepared-to-respond-with-force-amid-rising-tensions-1778008491122">Iran denies attack claims on UAE; Israel 'prepared to respond with force' amid rising tensions</a><h2>Iran had a higher degree of targeting precision than expected; US air defences in the Gulf region are strained</h2>The report quoted Mark Cancian of the Center for Strategic and International Studies as saying that the Iranian attacks were precise. “There are no random craters indicating misses.”This has resulted in the straining of US-made defence systems in West Asia. The Center for Strategic and International Studies assessments from February 28 to April 8 found that the US military used at least 190 THAAD interceptors, which is nearly 53 per cent of pre-war inventory. It also expended 1,060 Patriot interceptors, or nearly 43 per cent of pre-war inventory.Another assessment is that the US is not fully adapted to modern drone warfare. One-way attack drones, while carrying smaller payloads, were described as harder to intercept and highly accurate.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hegseth-calls-iran-a-clear-aggressor-iran-s-ghalibaf-says-new-equation-taking-shape-in-hormuz-1777994605630/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/hegseth-calls-iran-a-clear-aggressor-iran-s-ghalibaf-says-new-equation-taking-shape-in-hormuz-1777994605630/embed</a>The WaPo report said some US bases in the Middle East became too dangerous to operate normally, prompting commanders to relocate personnel outside the range of Iranian attacks. One unnamed US official described the damage at the Naval Support Activity Bahrain as “extensive”, leading to relocation to MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, Florida.The US Central Command declined to provide detailed counter-assessments, saying fuller context would emerge after the conflict ends, according to the report.Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

A report claimed that Iranian airstrikes had hit more than 200 structures and equipment at US military sites across Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan and UAE. This is much more than the US has acknowledged. Here is a breakdown

The Washington Post has reported, based on satellite imagery analysis, that Iranian airstrikes damaged or destroyed at least 228 structures or pieces of equipment at American military sites across the Gulf region since the war began on February 28, a number far bigger than what the US government has acknowledged. The investigative report said 15 US military sites across Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan and the UAE were hit. Investigators reviewed more than 100 high-resolution satellite images Satellite images from Iranian state-affiliated media, 109 images and data from the EU’s Copernicus satellite system and commercial imagery were analysed. WaPo reporters identified 10 more damaged or destroyed structures independently using satellite images. The report documented damage to 217 structures and 11 pieces of equipment. The strikes damaged hangars, barracks, fuel depots, aircraft, radar systems, communications infrastructure and air defence equipment, it added. Seven US service members died in attacks on the regional bases: six in Kuwait and one in Saudi Arabia, while more than 400 troops were injured by late April, of which 12 are serious. Also read: ‘Foreigners have no place in Gulf, except at the bottom of its waters,’ says Mojtaba Khamenei in menacing warning to US How hard did Iran hit American facilities in the Gulf? The report claimed that more than half of all documented damages occurred at the US 5th Fleet headquarters in Bahrain and three major US facilities in Kuwait. Iran hit and damaged fuel bladders, Patriot missile defence systems and radomes at Ali al-Salem Air Base in Kuwait. At Camp Arifjan and Camp Buehring in Kuwait, the Iranian attacks hit barracks, power infrastructure and operational facilities. Satellite communications infrastructure was damaged at Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar and US naval facilities in Bahrain. At Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, an E-3 Sentry command aircraft and a refuelling tanker were reportedly destroyed. Also damaged were THAAD missile defence systems in Jordan and the UAE. Also read: Iran denies attack claims on UAE; Israel 'prepared to respond with force' amid rising tensions Iran had a higher degree of targeting precision than expected; US air defences in the Gulf region are strained The report quoted Mark Cancian of the Center for Strategic and International Studies as saying that the Iranian attacks were precise. “There are no random craters indicating misses.” This has resulted in the straining of US-made defence systems in West Asia. The Center for Strategic and International Studies assessments from February 28 to April 8 found that the US military used at least 190 THAAD interceptors, which is nearly 53 per cent of pre-war inventory. It also expended 1,060 Patriot interceptors, or nearly 43 per cent of pre-war inventory. Another assessment is that the US is not fully adapted to modern drone warfare. One-way attack drones, while carrying smaller payloads, were described as harder to intercept and highly accurate. https://www.wionews.com/videos/hegseth-calls-iran-a-clear-aggressor-iran-s-ghalibaf-says-new-equation-taking-shape-in-hormuz-1777994605630/embed The WaPo report said some US bases in the Middle East became too dangerous to operate normally, prompting commanders to relocate personnel outside the range of Iranian attacks. One unnamed US official described the damage at the Naval Support Activity Bahrain as “extensive”, leading to relocation to MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, Florida. The US Central Command declined to provide detailed counter-assessments, saying fuller context would emerge after the conflict ends, according to the report. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

A report claimed that Iranian airstrikes had hit more than 200 structures and equipment at US military sites across Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan and UAE. This is much more than the US has acknowledged. Here is a breakdown

200+ American targets in the Gulf hit by Iran, much more than acknowledged by the US, claims report

As tensions persist between the United States and China, and global conflicts continue across regions from Europe to the Middle East, the international system is becoming increasingly fragmented and unpredictable. As states prepare for intensified diplomatic engagements, including the forthcoming Quadrilateral Security Dialogue Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi, questions of strategic alignment, deterrence, and the management of competition are becoming central to global diplomacy. In such a world, the central challenge for states is no longer simply how to dominate the international system, but how to navigate uncertainty, manage shifting alignments, and avoid strategic overreach. It is in this context that the experience of the Byzantine Empire becomes relevant once again. Strategy under constant pressure For centuries, Byzantium operated in a highly contested environment—surrounded by rival powers, shifting coalitions, and recurring crises. Its survival was not based on overwhelming military dominance, but on the careful integration of diplomacy, intelligence, calibrated force, and strategic patience. Modern interpretations of Byzantine strategy, including the work of Edward Luttwak, emphasise a central insight: in unstable systems, survival depends less on raw power and more on how effectively power is applied. Force as a last instrument, not a first option Byzantium rarely relied on direct confrontation when alternatives existed. It understood that war with equal or superior rivals was often costly and strategically unnecessary. Instead, it used: * delay * negotiation * selective engagement * and political fragmentation of adversaries Military force was not absent, but it was carefully rationed and deployed only when outcomes could be shaped decisively. This reflects a broader strategic principle: in fragmented systems, restraint can be as powerful as force.&nbsp;<ul><li>Diplomacy as a tool of strategic design Byzantine diplomacy was not passive—it was an active instrument of statecraft. Alliances were fluid and constantly adjusted. Rivals were managed rather than always confronted directly. External relationships were structured to prevent the consolidation of hostile coalitions. In many cases, the objective was not to eliminate adversaries, but to ensure they remained divided, constrained, or strategically balanced. This logic resonates strongly in today’s international environment, where alignments are increasingly fluid and issue-based. Intelligence, influence, and perception A critical but less visible dimension of Byzantine strategy was its deep investment in information and intelligence. The empire built extensive networks to: * assess adversaries * understand internal weaknesses * and shape external perceptions Influence was often exercised indirectly, through calibrated messaging and strategic communication rather than overt force. In the modern world—where information and perception are central to geopolitics—this dimension is particularly relevant. Calibrated use of force When Byzantium did use military power, it did so with precision and constraint. Force was: * limited in scope * focused on specific objectives * integrated with diplomacy and political strategy The aim was not total victory at all costs, but stability, balance, and the avoidance of unnecessary escalation. This distinction remains critical in contemporary geopolitics, where escalation control is often as important as deterrence itself. Relevance for today’s international system The modern world increasingly reflects conditions similar to those Byzantium faced: * multiple power centres * shifting alliances * persistent regional conflicts * and institutional uncertainty In such an environment, states must balance deterrence with diplomacy, and capability with restraint. For countries such as India, China, and the United States, the challenge is not only to accumulate power, but to deploy it in ways that preserve strategic autonomy while avoiding unnecessary escalation. Byzantine strategy does not offer a blueprint, but it offers a lens: adaptability matters more than rigidity, calibration more than overreach, and management of complexity more than dominance. Conclusion In an increasingly fragmented international system, success may depend less on overwhelming strength and more on the ability to combine power with patience, diplomacy with deterrence, and ambition with restraint. That may be the most enduring lesson the Byzantine experience offers the modern world. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.</li></ul>

Byzantium rarely relied on direct confrontation when alternatives existed. It understood that war with equal or superior rivals was often costly and strategically unnecessary.

As tensions persist between the United States and China, and global conflicts continue across regions from Europe to the Middle East, the international system is becoming increasingly fragmented and unpredictable. As states prepare for intensified diplomatic engagements, including the forthcoming Quadrilateral Security Dialogue Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi, questions of strategic alignment, deterrence, and the management of competition are becoming central to global diplomacy. In such a world, the central challenge for states is no longer simply how to dominate the international system, but how to navigate uncertainty, manage shifting alignments, and avoid strategic overreach. It is in this context that the experience of the Byzantine Empire becomes relevant once again. Strategy under constant pressure For centuries, Byzantium operated in a highly contested environment—surrounded by rival powers, shifting coalitions, and recurring crises. Its survival was not based on overwhelming military dominance, but on the careful integration of diplomacy, intelligence, calibrated force, and strategic patience. Modern interpretations of Byzantine strategy, including the work of Edward Luttwak, emphasise a central insight: in unstable systems, survival depends less on raw power and more on how effectively power is applied. Force as a last instrument, not a first option Byzantium rarely relied on direct confrontation when alternatives existed. It understood that war with equal or superior rivals was often costly and strategically unnecessary. Instead, it used: * delay * negotiation * selective engagement * and political fragmentation of adversaries Military force was not absent, but it was carefully rationed and deployed only when outcomes could be shaped decisively. This reflects a broader strategic principle: in fragmented systems, restraint can be as powerful as force. Diplomacy as a tool of strategic design Byzantine diplomacy was not passive—it was an active instrument of statecraft. Alliances were fluid and constantly adjusted. Rivals were managed rather than always confronted directly. External relationships were structured to prevent the consolidation of hostile coalitions. In many cases, the objective was not to eliminate adversaries, but to ensure they remained divided, constrained, or strategically balanced. This logic resonates strongly in today’s international environment, where alignments are increasingly fluid and issue-based. Intelligence, influence, and perception A critical but less visible dimension of Byzantine strategy was its deep investment in information and intelligence. The empire built extensive networks to: * assess adversaries * understand internal weaknesses * and shape external perceptions Influence was often exercised indirectly, through calibrated messaging and strategic communication rather than overt force. In the modern world—where information and perception are central to geopolitics—this dimension is particularly relevant. Calibrated use of force When Byzantium did use military power, it did so with precision and constraint. Force was: * limited in scope * focused on specific objectives * integrated with diplomacy and political strategy The aim was not total victory at all costs, but stability, balance, and the avoidance of unnecessary escalation. This distinction remains critical in contemporary geopolitics, where escalation control is often as important as deterrence itself. Relevance for today’s international system The modern world increasingly reflects conditions similar to those Byzantium faced: * multiple power centres * shifting alliances * persistent regional conflicts * and institutional uncertainty In such an environment, states must balance deterrence with diplomacy, and capability with restraint. For countries such as India, China, and the United States, the challenge is not only to accumulate power, but to deploy it in ways that preserve strategic autonomy while avoiding unnecessary escalation. Byzantine strategy does not offer a blueprint, but it offers a lens: adaptability matters more than rigidity, calibration more than overreach, and management of complexity more than dominance. Conclusion In an increasingly fragmented international system, success may depend less on overwhelming strength and more on the ability to combine power with patience, diplomacy with deterrence, and ambition with restraint. That may be the most enduring lesson the Byzantine experience offers the modern world. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

Byzantium rarely relied on direct confrontation when alternatives existed. It understood that war with equal or superior rivals was often costly and strategically unnecessary.

Byzantine Strategy and the Art of Survival in a Fragmented World

The United States on May 6 announced that it will close its consulate ​in Pakistan's Peshawar, citing the ‌safety of its diplomats,. The State Department in a notice said that it has taken the decision with respect to the security conditions in the region. The State Department said that the US embassy ​in Islamabad will handle all diplomatic ⁠engagement with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa ​province, where Peshawar is the capital.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/iran-sets-condition-for-talks-in-pakistan-after-trump-s-ceasefire-extension-hormuz-kharg-island-islamabad-iran-port-blockade-1776841360874">If they seek war, we are ready...': Iran sets condition for talks in Pakistan after Trump's ceasefire extension</a>&nbsp;"This decision reflects our commitment to the safety of our ​diplomatic personnel and efficient ​resource management," the statement said. To avoid speculations around its decision, the state department clarified that only the physical presence in Peshawar is changing, but US policy priorities in Pakistan remain steadfast.&nbsp;“We will continue to engage meaningfully with the people and officials of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to foster economic ties, promote regional security, and advance the interests of the American people.” It said that US Mission to Pakistan would remain dedicated to advancing the US-Pakistan relationship through our remaining diplomatic posts in Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-i-hear-yes-trump-s-big-hint-about-china-s-role-in-pressuring-iran-for-ceasefire-with-us-1775618069783">'I hear yes': Trump's BIG hint about China's role in pressuring Iran for ceasefire with US</a>&nbsp;Khyber Pakhtunkhwa borders ‌Afghanistan and has seen several security related incidents during fierce fighting between Pakistan forces and what Islamabad says are Afghan-backed militants. Protests were also held outside US consulate in ​Karachi, Pakistan's ⁠biggest city after US-Israeli strikes killed &nbsp;Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. At least ten ​people were killed in Pak. “Pakistan stands with the Iranian nation in this moment of grief and shares in their loss,” President Asif Ali Zardari said in a statement following Khamenei’s death. However, Pakistan is playing the role of a mediator in Iran-US conflict.&nbsp;

The US has decided to close its consulate in Peshawar over security concerns for diplomatic staff amid rising violence in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The US embassy in Islamabad will now oversee engagements in the region

The United States on May 6 announced that it will close its consulate in Pakistan's Peshawar, citing the ‌safety of its diplomats,. The State Department in a notice said that it has taken the decision with respect to the security conditions in the region. The State Department said that the US embassy in Islamabad will handle all diplomatic ⁠engagement with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, where Peshawar is the capital. Also Read: If they seek war, we are ready...': Iran sets condition for talks in Pakistan after Trump's ceasefire extension "This decision reflects our commitment to the safety of our diplomatic personnel and efficient resource management," the statement said. To avoid speculations around its decision, the state department clarified that only the physical presence in Peshawar is changing, but US policy priorities in Pakistan remain steadfast. “We will continue to engage meaningfully with the people and officials of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to foster economic ties, promote regional security, and advance the interests of the American people.” It said that US Mission to Pakistan would remain dedicated to advancing the US-Pakistan relationship through our remaining diplomatic posts in Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore. Also Read: 'I hear yes': Trump's BIG hint about China's role in pressuring Iran for ceasefire with US Khyber Pakhtunkhwa borders ‌Afghanistan and has seen several security related incidents during fierce fighting between Pakistan forces and what Islamabad says are Afghan-backed militants. Protests were also held outside US consulate in Karachi, Pakistan's ⁠biggest city after US-Israeli strikes killed Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. At least ten people were killed in Pak. “Pakistan stands with the Iranian nation in this moment of grief and shares in their loss,” President Asif Ali Zardari said in a statement following Khamenei’s death. However, Pakistan is playing the role of a mediator in Iran-US conflict.

The US has decided to close its consulate in Peshawar over security concerns for diplomatic staff amid rising violence in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The US embassy in Islamabad will now oversee engagements in the region

Why US shut down Peshawar Consulate in Pakistan?

A US Navy warplane opened fire on an oil tanker and disabled its rudder after the vessel attempted to breach Washington’s blockade of Iranian ports, the US military said on Wednesday (May 6). This marks the second instance of US forces firing on a ship accused of violating the blockade, which has been in effect since April 13. US forces issued warnings to the Iranian-flagged M/T Hasna, which was not carrying cargo, saying it violated the blockade. When the crew did not respond, a US F/A-18 Super Hornet disabled the tanker's rudder by firing several rounds from (its) 20mm cannon gun, Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a post on X.&nbsp;"Hasna is no longer transiting to Iran," CENTCOM said, adding: “The US blockade against ships attempting to enter or depart Iranian ports remains in full effect.” Earlier, on April 19, another Iranian-flagged vessel, the M/V Touska, also attempted to defy the blockade and ignored repeated warnings from a US destroyer, according to CENTCOM. The US warship eventually ordered the crew to evacuate the engine room before striking it with multiple rounds from its five-inch gun, disabling the ship.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-strikes-beirut-targets-hezbollah-commander-in-first-attack-since-ceasefire-1778092024639">Israel strikes Beirut, targets Hezbollah commander in first attack since ceasefire</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Iranian forces had effectively shut down the critical Strait of Hormuz, a major global route for oil and gas shipments, following the launch of a US-Israeli air campaign against Iran on February 28. The United States imposed the blockade on Iranian ports after peace negotiations in Pakistan failed to produce a breakthrough last month. CENTCOM also reported on Monday that more than 50 commercial vessels "have been directed to turn around or return to port to comply" with the blockade.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-yuan-surges-as-currency-war-between-us-and-china-heats-up-1778087674981/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-yuan-surges-as-currency-war-between-us-and-china-heats-up-1778087674981/embed</a>&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

US warplane fires on Iranian tanker violating blockade, escalating tensions as Strait of Hormuz disruptions threaten global oil supply routes

A US Navy warplane opened fire on an oil tanker and disabled its rudder after the vessel attempted to breach Washington’s blockade of Iranian ports, the US military said on Wednesday (May 6). This marks the second instance of US forces firing on a ship accused of violating the blockade, which has been in effect since April 13. US forces issued warnings to the Iranian-flagged M/T Hasna, which was not carrying cargo, saying it violated the blockade. When the crew did not respond, a US F/A-18 Super Hornet disabled the tanker's rudder by firing several rounds from (its) 20mm cannon gun, Central Command (CENTCOM) said in a post on X. "Hasna is no longer transiting to Iran," CENTCOM said, adding: “The US blockade against ships attempting to enter or depart Iranian ports remains in full effect.” Earlier, on April 19, another Iranian-flagged vessel, the M/V Touska, also attempted to defy the blockade and ignored repeated warnings from a US destroyer, according to CENTCOM. The US warship eventually ordered the crew to evacuate the engine room before striking it with multiple rounds from its five-inch gun, disabling the ship. Also Read: Israel strikes Beirut, targets Hezbollah commander in first attack since ceasefire Meanwhile, Iranian forces had effectively shut down the critical Strait of Hormuz, a major global route for oil and gas shipments, following the launch of a US-Israeli air campaign against Iran on February 28. The United States imposed the blockade on Iranian ports after peace negotiations in Pakistan failed to produce a breakthrough last month. CENTCOM also reported on Monday that more than 50 commercial vessels "have been directed to turn around or return to port to comply" with the blockade. https://www.wionews.com/videos/chinese-yuan-surges-as-currency-war-between-us-and-china-heats-up-1778087674981/embed Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, the US, Gulf nations, and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

US Navy jet disables Iranian tanker violating blockade; tensions escalate as Strait of Hormuz disruption impacts global oil routes

US warplane fires at Iranian tanker trying to breach naval blockade amid maritime tensions

President Donald Trump on Wednesday expressed optimism about striking a deal with Iran, which he said could include Iran exporting its highly enriched uranium to the United States. Trump told PBS News in a phone interview that the US is closing in on a deal and then added, “But I felt that way before with them, so we’ll see what happens.”Trump further said that it is possible a deal could be struck to end the war before his trip to China next week.“I think it’s got a very good chance of ending, and if it doesn’t end, we have to go back to bombing the hell out of them,” Trump told White House correspondent Liz Landers.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/16-killed-several-injured-as-bus-collides-with-fuel-tanker-in-indonesia-s-sumatra-1778076265887">16 killed, several injured as bus collides with fuel tanker in Indonesia’s Sumatra</a><h2>‘It goes to the United States,’ says Trump on Iran’s enriched uranium</h2>&nbsp;&nbsp;“I think we’ll have a very good chance of making a deal again. If we don’t, we’ll go back to our old ways,” he said.When asked to confirm reports that Iran would export its highly enriched uranium, perhaps, to the US, Trump said, “No, not perhaps. It goes to the United States.”&nbsp;“It’s getting very close. If they agree, it’s over, and if they don’t agree, we bomb,” he added.&nbsp;When asked about gas prices and whether they will drop, Trump said they would go way down.“Well, we have 1,000 boats that are loaded up with oil that can’t, you know, go anywhere. So, when that—it's gonna be a, it’s gonna be an oil rush,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-verify-think-before-sharing-says-giorgia-meloni-after-her-ai-made-image-in-lingerie-goes-viral-1778010741625">‘Verify, think before sharing,’ says Giorgia Meloni after her AI-made image in lingerie goes viral</a>&nbsp;Earlier, Trump had posted on Truth Social that Project Freedom, a mission to escort commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, would be ‘paused’ as the countries got closer to a deal.&nbsp;<h2>Trump defends his White House ballroom project</h2>&nbsp;The president also defended his White House ballroom project, which faced renewed scrutiny this week after Senate Republicans proposed including $1 billion for security upgrades to the East Wing in a reconciliation bill. Trump has touted the project as funded by himself and other private donors. The estimated price tag of $200 million has nearly doubled in recent months."It's a tiny, it's one one-millionth of a percent of what we do. That's a small deal. And I'm putting up a lot of money myself," he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-iran-beaten-badly-its-navy-reduced-to-little-boats-with-machine-guns-says-trump-1778004098730">‘Iran beaten badly, its navy reduced to little boats with machine guns,’ says Trump</a><h2>‘It will have a drone-proof roof’</h2>&nbsp;“We want to have the inaugurations in the ballroom. This is big enough to handle the inauguration. And it’s got bulletproof glass.”&nbsp;“So we want safety, we want security, and that’s what we have with the ballroom. And as an example, we have a drone-proof roof. Nice thing in these modern days, you know. So it’s gonna be great. A president can walk right from the White House into the ballroom. There’s no going on the streets," the president added.&nbsp;

President Trump also defended his White House ballroom project, which faced renewed scrutiny this week after Senate Republicans proposed including $1 billion for security upgrades to the East Wing in a reconciliation bill.

President Donald Trump on Wednesday expressed optimism about striking a deal with Iran, which he said could include Iran exporting its highly enriched uranium to the United States. Trump told PBS News in a phone interview that the US is closing in on a deal and then added, “But I felt that way before with them, so we’ll see what happens.” Trump further said that it is possible a deal could be struck to end the war before his trip to China next week. “I think it’s got a very good chance of ending, and if it doesn’t end, we have to go back to bombing the hell out of them,” Trump told White House correspondent Liz Landers. Also Read: 16 killed, several injured as bus collides with fuel tanker in Indonesia’s Sumatra ‘It goes to the United States,’ says Trump on Iran’s enriched uranium “I think we’ll have a very good chance of making a deal again. If we don’t, we’ll go back to our old ways,” he said. When asked to confirm reports that Iran would export its highly enriched uranium, perhaps, to the US, Trump said, “No, not perhaps. It goes to the United States.” “It’s getting very close. If they agree, it’s over, and if they don’t agree, we bomb,” he added. When asked about gas prices and whether they will drop, Trump said they would go way down. “Well, we have 1,000 boats that are loaded up with oil that can’t, you know, go anywhere. So, when that—it's gonna be a, it’s gonna be an oil rush,” he said. Also Read: ‘Verify, think before sharing,’ says Giorgia Meloni after her AI-made image in lingerie goes viral Earlier, Trump had posted on Truth Social that Project Freedom, a mission to escort commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, would be ‘paused’ as the countries got closer to a deal. Trump defends his White House ballroom project The president also defended his White House ballroom project, which faced renewed scrutiny this week after Senate Republicans proposed including $1 billion for security upgrades to the East Wing in a reconciliation bill. Trump has touted the project as funded by himself and other private donors. The estimated price tag of $200 million has nearly doubled in recent months. "It's a tiny, it's one one-millionth of a percent of what we do. That's a small deal. And I'm putting up a lot of money myself," he said. Also Read: ‘Iran beaten badly, its navy reduced to little boats with machine guns,’ says Trump ‘It will have a drone-proof roof’ “We want to have the inaugurations in the ballroom. This is big enough to handle the inauguration. And it’s got bulletproof glass.” “So we want safety, we want security, and that’s what we have with the ballroom. And as an example, we have a drone-proof roof. Nice thing in these modern days, you know. So it’s gonna be great. A president can walk right from the White House into the ballroom. There’s no going on the streets," the president added.

President Trump also defended his White House ballroom project, which faced renewed scrutiny this week after Senate Republicans proposed including $1 billion for security upgrades to the East Wing in a reconciliation bill.

‘Very good chance of ending war, Iran to export its highly enriched uranium to US,’ says Trump

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Iran launches fresh drone attacks across Gulf after threatening US

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Iran will ‘never bow to the enemy’, says Pezeshkian

Bye bye, drones: Trump floods truth social with AI Iran war images, Golf photos

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US-Iran War | IRGC: Will Strike US Sites in Gulf if Tankers Come Under Fire

Iran War: 'IRGC Officials and Ghalibaf Running Day-To-Day Operations'

US sanctions 10 entities across 5 countries over Iran missile and drone programs

Massive oil spill off Iran’s Kharg Island? Satellite images show huge slick

US-Iran War: US Opens Fire on Iranian Ships, Trump Warns of Even Violent Retaliation

WATCH: Pentagon releases footage of US Navy bombing 2 Iranian tankers in Hormuz

Trump Expecting Iran Response Soon On Agreement To End War

Trump says expecting Iran's response to his latest peace proposal 'tonight,' even as US strikes Iranian tankers in Gulf of Oman

Trump says expecting Iran's response to his latest peace proposal 'tonight'

‘Blatant violation’: Iran accuses US of ceasefire breach after overnight attacks

US forces strike two Iranian vessels over blockade violation | WATCH

Iran stronger than before the war, claims missile stockpile now at 120%

Iran creates new Persian Gulf Strait Authority to formalise control of Hormuz

War, negotiate, repeat: History shows how US-Iran may crack deal while battling

Trump says US-Iran peace proposal is ‘more than a one-page offer’

Satellite images show mysterious movement at secret Iranian site: Report

US-Iran War: Trump Describes Strikes On Iran As 'Love Tap'

US-Iran War: Tehran Imposes New Rules for Hormuz Passage

US-Iran War: US Says It Struck Iran After Attack on American Warships