★USA  

1. Trump Says Iran Collapsing And Seeking Rapid Hormuz Reopening

US President Donald Trump said Iran is “in collapse” and has asked for a rapid reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. At the same time, Washington remains unsatisfied with Tehran’s proposal to delay nuclear talks and focus on ending the war. US officials rejected the plan, insisting nuclear issues are central, as mediation efforts continue amid declining shipping through Hormuz. 

2. US Sanctions Target Iran’s Shadow Banking And Oil Networks

The United States imposed sanctions on 35 entities tied to Iran’s covert “shadow banking” network used to bypass restrictions and fund military activities. Officials accused the IRGC of exploiting global finance for oil sales and weapons procurement. Measures follow Operation Economic Fury, targeting exports and vessels, including a Chinese refinery, intensifying pressure during ongoing ceasefire negotiations.

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★IRAN

3. Iran Eases Internet Restrictions For Businesses During Ongoing Blackout

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council approved a temporary “Internet Pro” scheme allowing selected businesses restricted global internet access after a blackout lasting over two months following war escalation with the US and Israel. Officials said access remains conditional and temporary. The restrictions, initially imposed during unrest and renewed after strikes, have caused major economic losses and widespread disruption across Iran’s workforce. 

4. IRGC Expands Wartime Control As Clerical Authority Weakens In Iran

Two months into the war with the US and Israel, Iran’s power structure has shifted away from clerical supremacy toward the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which now dominates military and political decision-making. With Ayatollah Ali Khamenei killed and his son Mojtaba acting as a symbolic figure, the Supreme National Security Council and IRGC drive policy, including stalled US negotiations and wartime strategy. 

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★IRAQ

5. US Welcomes New Iraqi Prime Minister’s Appointment In Baghdad

The US welcomed the nomination of Ali Al-Zaydi to form Iraq’s new government, expressing hope for stability and sovereignty. Appointed by President Nizar Amidi following political shifts, the 40-year-old faces challenges, including disarming Iran-backed militias, rebuilding Gulf ties, and managing economic strain from disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz that affect oil-dependent revenues. He has 30 days to form a cabinet. 

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★LEBANON

6. Turkey Offers US Mediation Proposal On Hezbollah Settlement

Turkey has approached the United States and Lebanon, offering to mediate a potential settlement regarding Hezbollah, according to sources cited by i24NEWS. The Trump administration has not yet responded to the proposal, while Lebanon is reportedly hesitant due to concerns over expanding Turkish influence. The initiative reflects ongoing regional diplomatic efforts amid escalating tensions.

7. 8 Killed In Israeli Strikes In Southern Lebanon Despite Cease-Fire

Eight people, including civil defense rescuers, were killed, and two Lebanese soldiers were wounded in Israeli strikes on southern Lebanon despite an ongoing cease-fire. Beirut condemned repeated violations, while Israel said it targeted Hezbollah infrastructure amid continued cross-border escalation.

8. IDF Destroys Iranian-Backed Hezbollah Tunnels In Southern Lebanon

The IDF said it destroyed two major Hezbollah attack tunnels in Qantara, southern Lebanon, built over a decade with “direct Iranian guidance” and funding. Spanning about two kilometers and 25 meters deep, the tunnels were designed for Galilee invasion plans and housed weapons and bunkers. Israeli forces used 450 tons of explosives amid ongoing cross-border fighting despite a fragile ceasefire. 

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★THE GULF

9. UAE Leaves OPEC In Blow To Global Oil Producers Group

The United Arab Emirates announced it is quitting OPEC, a move that weakens the group’s control over global oil supply amid an energy crisis linked to the Iran war. The decision signals growing Gulf tensions, particularly with Saudi Arabia, as UAE officials described the exit as a strategic step to better meet global energy demand.

10. Oil Prices Dip During Hormuz Tensions And UAE Exit From OPEC

Oil prices edged lower on Wednesday after days of gains as markets assessed a potential prolonged US blockade on Iran and the UAE’s exit from OPEC and OPEC+ effective May 1, 2026. Brent fell to $111.21 and WTI to $99.36, while Hormuz disruptions, declining US inventories, and tighter shipping restrictions sustained supply concerns. 

11. Qatar Allegedly Promised Support To ICC Prosecutor Over Netanyahu

A report said Qatar promised to “look after” ICC prosecutor Karim Khan if he pursued charges against Benjamin Netanyahu over Gaza. The claim, based on a witness and audio recording submitted to the FBI, remains unverified. Khan’s lawyer denied any deal, while investigators, US officials, and ICC disciplinary proceedings intensified scrutiny surrounding the case.

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★ Disclaimer: This publication is a digest of various news sources compiled by the Early Phoenix team and edited by Rania Kisar. The items are curated, concise summaries of news items hyperlinked within each story. The items and summaries presented do not necessarily represent the views of the American Center for Levant Studies.