★USA

1. US Strikes Iran After Apache Helicopter Downing Incident

The United States launched a third wave of strikes on Iranian targets near the Strait of Hormuz after an Apache helicopter was downed, targeting air defense systems, radar installations, and command-and-control sites. Washington described the operation as a proportional response and warned that it remains prepared to defend its forces and interests, amid growing concerns over regional stability and maritime security.

2. US, China, and Russia Lead $119 Billion Nuclear Arms Race Surge

A new report by the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN) says global nuclear powers spent about $119 billion in 2025, a 19% rise year-on-year, reflecting an accelerating nuclear arms race. The United States led with $69.2 billion, followed by China and Russia, as all nine nuclear-armed states expand modernization programs, raising concerns over rising global military escalation.

3. Global Oil and Gas Prices Surge After US–Iran Airstrikes Near Hormuz

Global oil and gas prices surged after renewed US airstrikes on Iranian air defense systems near the Strait of Hormuz, following the downing of a US Apache helicopter. Oil rose toward $94 per barrel, reversing recent declines, as markets feared disruption to key shipping routes. Analysts warn prices could climb further if tensions escalate or Gulf energy flows are affected.

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★IRAN 

4. Iran Launches Strikes on US Bases in Jordan and the Gulf

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said they carried out missile and drone attacks on US military bases in Jordan, Kuwait, and Bahrain in response to American strikes near the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran said the operations targeted US forces as retaliation for what it called aggression, while regional states reported intercepting incoming projectiles amid rising tensions and fears of wider escalation.

5. NYT: Iran to Dilute Uranium Stockpile Under US Deal

The US and Iran are nearing a nuclear agreement covering four key issues: a temporary halt to uranium enrichment, dilution of Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile, dismantling of nuclear facilities, and expanded international inspections. According to the NYT, Iran would dilute rather than export its uranium, while negotiations continue over enrichment limits, site closures, and inspection access.

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★LEBANON

6. Israel’s Deadly Strike on Lebanon’s Tyre Kills Eight

Israel struck the Lebanese city of Tyre, killing at least eight people, according to the health ministry, before issuing an evacuation order minutes later. The attack targeted what Israel described as Hezbollah infrastructure, triggering mass displacement and suspensions of aid operations. The strike intensified concerns over humanitarian access and escalating conflict in southern Lebanon.

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★THE GULF

7. Iran Consults Saudi Arabia on Fallout of U.S. Strikes

Iran discussed the repercussions of recent U.S. strikes with Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, reaffirming its right to respond. The talks came amid escalating tensions following U.S. attacks near the Strait of Hormuz and Iranian retaliatory strikes on U.S.-linked targets in the region, raising concerns over wider conflict and threats to global shipping and energy supplies.

8. Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan Intercept Iranian Missiles, Drones

Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan said their air defense systems intercepted Iranian missiles and drones following US strikes on Iranian targets. Jordan reported downing five missiles headed toward Azraq, while Bahrain activated warning sirens and Kuwait engaged hostile aerial targets. The incidents highlight growing regional tensions after Washington’s latest military action against Iran.

9. Saudi Arabia and Turkey Sign Rail Link MoU to Boost Regional Trade

Saudi Arabia and Turkey signed a memorandum of understanding to cooperate on a major rail connectivity project aimed at strengthening regional logistics and transport integration. The agreement follows earlier Saudi plans to establish a rail network extending toward Jordan and Syria en route to Turkey, with the project expected to enhance trade flows, passenger transport, and broader regional supply chain connectivity.

10. Saudi-Yemeni Deal to Supply $150M in Fuel for Power Plants

Saudi Arabia and Yemen signed a $150 million agreement to supply diesel and fuel oil to support electricity generation across Yemeni provinces. The deal, under the Saudi Development and Reconstruction Program, will supply over 70 power plants and aims to stabilize electricity services, improve infrastructure, and support economic activity amid Yemen’s ongoing energy shortages.

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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.