★USA

1. Trump Pauses Hormuz Escort Operation Citing Progress With Iran

US President Donald Trump said the US will briefly pause its “Project Freedom” operation to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz, citing progress toward a broader deal with Iran. The move follows weeks of naval tensions, blockades, and attacks in the Gulf, while Washington says the ceasefire still holds but remains fragile amid continued regional escalation. 

2. Rubio Declares End Of Offensive Phase In Iran Conflict

US Secretary Marco Rubio announced Operation Epic Fury’s end, shifting to defensive enforcement of an Iranian port blockade. He said US forces will respond only if attacked while securing the Strait of Hormuz navigation. Rubio confirmed ten civilian sailors died, urged Iran toward diplomacy, and noted ongoing nuclear talks, alongside stating Israel-Lebanon peace remains possible despite Hezbollah obstacles.

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★IRAN

3. Iran FM Meets Chinese Counterpart During Gulf War Diplomacy Push

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing for the first time since the Iran war began, highlighting strengthening ties amid regional tensions. China urged continued ceasefire efforts between Iran and the US, as global energy security remains under strain ahead of expected US-China high-level talks. 

4. UN Draft Threatens Iran With Sanctions Over Hormuz Strait

A UN Security Council draft resolution, backed by the US and Gulf states, threatens sanctions on Iran unless it halts attacks on shipping, stops illegal tolls, and discloses mine placements in the Strait of Hormuz. It also demands that Iran facilitate humanitarian transit. The proposal follows escalating US-Iran clashes and seeks to secure navigation amid ongoing regional tensions. 

5. Iran Expands Trade Routes Through Pakistan To Bypass the Gulf

Iran is moving to reduce reliance on Gulf maritime routes by activating new overland trade corridors through Pakistan under a bilateral transit agreement. Six routes linking Gwadar, Karachi, and Qasim ports with Iranian border crossings are expected to streamline transit, cut costs and time, and reshape regional supply chains amid rising maritime tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.

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★THE GULF

6. UAE Defences Intercept Iranian Missiles And Drones During Escalation

UAE Ministry of Defence said it intercepted ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones launched from Iran, marking the second day of renewed attacks on Gulf states. Earlier strikes included 12 ballistic missiles, three cruise missiles, and four drones. Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Bahrain condemned the attacks and reaffirmed support for UAE security and stability.

7. UAE Expands Air Power With Major C-390 Military Deal

The UAE announced a major defense agreement to purchase 10 C-390 Millennium military transport aircraft, with additional options, marking the largest international deal of its kind. The move aims to enhance the air force’s readiness and reflects confidence in the UAE’s defense system. Officials said the deal supports military modernization and the development of a local defense industry base.

8. Zelensky Offers Bahrain Drones During Talks On Regional Security

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky discussed defense cooperation with Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, offering drones and battlefield expertise. Talks covered Iranian strikes, Gulf security, and shared threats. Both sides agreed to draft a potential deal, while Bahrain reaffirmed support for diplomacy to achieve lasting peace in Ukraine and broader regional stability.

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★IRAQ

9. Iraq PM-Designate Offers Iran US Mediation Role

Iraq’s prime minister-designate, Ali Falah Al-Zaydi, said Iraq can help mediate between Iran and the United States to resolve disputes during a phone call with President Masoud Pezeshkian. He reaffirmed Baghdad’s support for diplomacy and dialogue. Both sides reviewed bilateral cooperation and agreed to exchange official visits, according to an Iraqi government statement. 

10. IRGC Drone Strikes Hit Kurdistan Cam 

Iran’s IRGC reportedly struck a Komala-linked camp in Iraqi Kurdistan with two drones, with no casualties confirmed. Residents in southern Iran reported explosions later, attributed to air defenses intercepting drones. Separately, the UAE said it intercepted Iranian missiles and drones, while Tehran denied attacking, accusing Abu Dhabi of hosting US forces and aiding hostile operations.

11. US Embassy In Baghdad Urges Immediate Departure Amid Risks

The US Embassy in Baghdad warned of persistent security threats in Iraq despite the partial reopening of airspace and limited commercial flights. It urged American citizens not to travel and to leave immediately if present. The embassy maintained a Level 4 advisory, citing risks from missiles, drones, and Iran-linked militias targeting US interests nationwide. 

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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.