★USA

1. US Strikes Iran’s Qeshm Island After Drone Attacks

The US military said it conducted defensive strikes on Iran’s Qeshm Island, targeting a military control station in response to Iranian attacks across the region. US Central Command said it intercepted multiple Iranian missiles and drones, including threats aimed at Kuwait, Bahrain, and civilian vessels, while denying Iranian claims that US forces were successfully targeted.

2. Trump Demands Written Nuclear Concessions From Iran to Break Deadlock

US President Donald Trump is insisting that Iran provide written, verifiable nuclear commitments as a condition to break the current diplomatic deadlock, rejecting earlier verbal assurances as inadequate. He continues to press Tehran for clearer guarantees while maintaining that talks are still ongoing, though their outcome remains uncertain.

3. Rubio: Khamenei More Active, Iran Still Has Drones

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is becoming more involved in government affairs and that Iran still possesses a large drone arsenal despite damage from US-Israeli strikes. Rubio stressed that any sanctions relief remains tied to Iran abandoning its nuclear program, while noting Tehran has shown greater willingness to discuss previously off-limits nuclear issues.

4. US Sanctions Iran’s Largest Crypto Exchange Over IRGC Links

The United States has imposed sanctions on Iran’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, Nobitex, accusing it of helping the government and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps bypass Western sanctions. The Treasury Department said the platform facilitated major transactions linked to sanctioned entities, while also targeting its founders and CEO. Nobitex denied knowingly assisting illicit activity, saying it had no direct government ties and was preparing for possible sanctions.

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★IRAN

5. Iran Reviews Limited US Deal During Claims of Ongoing Talks

Iran is reportedly reviewing a proposed interim deal with the United States to halt the conflict, while insisting on a cautious stance due to mistrust of Washington. Iranian sources say communication with the US has recently slowed, though President Donald Trump insists negotiations continue and a broader agreement could be reached soon despite ongoing regional tensions and strikes.

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★LEBANON

6. Hezbollah Rejects Partial Ceasefire Deal With Israel

Hezbollah said it will not accept any partial ceasefire agreement with Israel, rejecting proposals that would halt attacks on Beirut’s southern suburbs in exchange for ending strikes on northern Israel. Senior official Mahmoud Qomati stated the group supports only a comprehensive ceasefire and warned that any Israeli attack on Beirut’s southern district could trigger a stronger response.

7. Israel Continues Strikes in South Lebanon During Washington Talks

Israel carried out fresh strikes in southern Lebanon on Tuesday, even after stepping back from a planned attack on Beirut following US intervention. The war between Israel and Hezbollah continues to escalate, with heavy casualties and displacement. While diplomatic talks are underway in Washington involving Lebanese and Israeli officials, Israel maintains its military pressure in the south and warns of further escalation if northern areas are attacked.

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★IRAQ

8. Iraqi Militias Begin Disarming Under Government Pressure

Two major Iran-backed Iraqi militias, Asaib Ahl al-Haq and the Imam Ali Brigades, announced plans to hand their weapons to state authorities, supporting Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi’s efforts to establish a state monopoly on arms. The move follows pressure from the US and Iraqi leaders, though powerful factions including Kataeb Hezbollah and Harakat al-Nujaba continue to reject disarmament.

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★THE GULF

9. Iranian Attack Causes Major Damage at Kuwait Airport

Kuwait activated emergency measures after Iranian drones and missiles struck Terminal 1 at Kuwait International Airport, causing significant damage and injuries. Authorities suspended flights and diverted air traffic to alternative airports. The attack came just two days after the airport resumed operations, while US Central Command said allied forces intercepted several Iranian missiles and drones targeting the region.

10. US Pressures Oman to Distance Itself From Iran Diplomatically

The United States is pressuring Oman to reduce ties with Iran, viewing Muscat’s neutral stance as a security concern. Oman, which mediated recent US-Iran talks and maintained communication channels during the conflict, is preparing a response. Tensions increased after Oman avoided directly condemning Iran, while President Donald Trump recently threatened military action over alleged support for Iranian plans in the Strait of Hormuz.

11. Bahrain Bans Citizen Travel to Iran and Iraq

Bahrain has banned its citizens from traveling to Iran and Iraq until further notice, citing security concerns linked to escalating regional tensions. The Interior Ministry said the measure aims to protect citizens and warned that legal action will be taken against anyone who violates the travel ban.

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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.