★ U.S.A
Trump Declares “Economic D-Day” Against Iran, Warns Its Backers
US President Donald Trump declared an “Economic D-Day” against Iran, pledging unprecedented economic pressure and warning countries aiding Tehran of severe consequences. He demanded an end to oil smuggling, cash transfers and other financial channels, while envoy Jared Kushner said US-Iran talks remain active but have yet to produce an agreement.
US Establishes Secret Hormuz Corridor To Move 10 Million Barrels Daily
The US military has established a covert shipping corridor through the Strait of Hormuz, allowing 15–20 tankers to safely transport around 10 million barrels of oil daily, roughly half pre-war volumes, according to Axios. President Trump said the strait remains open, with significant oil continuing to reach global markets.
US Forces Redirect 65 Ships And Disable Three In Iran Blockade
US Central Command says American forces have redirected 65 commercial vessels, disabled three and boarded two as part of enforcing the blockade on Iran through August 19. President Trump said the US has “full control” of the Strait of Hormuz, while Washington’s talks with Tehran remain stalled.
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★ IRAQ
Iran Proposes Hiding Iraqi Factions’ Weapons to Avoid Conflict
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf discussed in Baghdad proposals to prevent confrontation between Iraq’s government and Iran-aligned factions, including freezing or temporarily transferring heavy weapons to Iran. The talks followed tensions after a senior Nujaba commander’s arrest, while Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi remains committed to placing all weapons under state control by September 30.
Iraq Faces Mounting Pressure From New US Sanctions On Iran
Iraq is likely to be the biggest casualty of new US sanctions on Iran, given its deep economic and energy dependence on Tehran. Iran supplies a significant share of Iraq’s gas and electricity, while bilateral trade reaches up to $15 billion. Cutting ties could trigger severe power shortages, while maintaining them risks US sanctions.
Saudi Arabia Presses Iraq to Punish Iran-Backed Militia Leaders
Saudi Arabia is urging Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi to arrest and punish Iran-backed militia leaders behind attacks on the kingdom, following Saudi-US strikes on militia headquarters in eight Iraqi provinces. Riyadh seeks to ease tensions with Baghdad while pursuing separate backchannel talks with Tehran.
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★ IRAN
Russia Ships Weapons To Iran To Replenish War-Damaged Arsenal
Russia has reportedly begun shipping drone components, ammunition and explosives to Iran via the Caspian Sea to help replenish weapons damaged by US and Israeli strikes. More than 20 Russian vessels have reportedly delivered supplies to Iran, though Moscow denies the allegations, as military cooperation between the two countries deepens.
Iran Seizes UAE Oil Tanker And Diverts It To Bandar Abbas
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard seized a UAE-flagged oil tanker in the northern Strait of Hormuz and diverted it to Bandar Abbas, according to Iranian media. The incident came after the UAE suspended trade and financial transactions with Iran, amid escalating tensions and growing disruptions to shipping through the strait.
Iran Gradually Loses Control Over Shipping Through Strait Of Hormuz
Iran is gradually losing influence over shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, with more than 80% of vessels using the Omani route in recent weeks despite Tehran’s objections. While US forces protect shipping and Iran has lost some ability to dictate routes and impose fees, Tehran retains the capacity to disrupt traffic and raise shipping risks.
Mojtaba Khamenei Turns To Old Guard For Prolonged US Confrontation
Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has appointed veteran IRGC figures, including Mohsen Rezaei and Hossein Taeb, to key security posts, signaling preparations for a prolonged and tougher confrontation with Washington. The appointments also reflect fears of renewed domestic unrest and suggest a more hardline approach as US-Iran diplomacy faces uncertainty.
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★SYRIA
Turkiye Vows to Protect Syria’s Sovereignty After Israeli Strike
Turkiye vowed to protect Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity after Israel struck the Abu al-Duhur military airbase, citing security threats. Ankara denied having troops at the base but pledged continued support for Syria’s military development. Israel warned against Turkish deployments, while Damascus denied plans for a permanent Turkish base.
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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.
