★ U.S.A
US Escalates Pressure on Iran With New Sanctions
The US announced new sanctions targeting 60 entities tied to Iran, warning countries against economic dealings with Tehran. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Washington would block dollar access for Iran-linked money laundering, while Trump presses global leaders to halt economic cooperation, threatening isolation for noncompliant states.
Pakistan Says Significant Progress Made in Iran War Talks
Pakistan said it made “significant progress” in talks with Iran focused on ending the US-Israeli war and preventing further escalation. Discussions addressed reopening the Strait of Hormuz and pursuing a negotiated settlement. Army chief Asim Munir also spoke with Donald Trump before visiting Tehran, as Washington warned countries against supporting Iran.
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★ IRAN
Iran Vows Retaliation as US Expands Economic Sanctions
Iran vowed to retaliate against expanded US sanctions, warning of a military response and further cuts to Gulf oil exports. Tehran said it is prepared to confront Washington’s economic pressure, while the US warned trading partners they could face exclusion from the dollar-based financial system if they continue doing business with Iran.
Iran Threatens 45 Tankers With Fines and Confiscation in Hormuz
Iran blacklisted 45 tankers accused of violating Strait of Hormuz transit rules, warning they could face fines, detention and cargo confiscation. The list includes vessels linked to UAE’s ADNOC, Saudi Arabia’s Bahri and other international operators. Iran also warned ships conducting transfers with the listed tankers could be blacklisted.
Fuel Lines Grow in Tehran as US Pressure Tightens
Fuel shortages are worsening in Tehran as US economic pressure and shipping restrictions disrupt Iran’s fuel supplies, with the country facing a gasoline deficit of about 15 million liters daily. Inflation is nearing 90%, while food prices have risen about 130%, forcing authorities to weigh fuel subsidy cuts against renewed public unrest.
Axios: Iran Struggles to Find Alternative Routes as Supplies Shrink
Iran is struggling to establish alternative land and sea routes as war, shipping disruptions and US sanctions squeeze trade and oil exports, Axios reported. The pressure has weakened foreign-currency inflows and pushed the rial to a record low. China remains Iran’s key oil buyer, complicating Washington’s efforts to isolate Tehran economically.
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★ IRAQ
Iraq Delays Deadline for Iran-Backed Militias to Disarm
Iraq has delayed a September 30 deadline for Iran-backed armed factions to hand over weapons, without setting a new date. Officials said September 30 marks the end of the US-led coalition’s presence, not a disarmament deadline. The government faces pressure from Washington, while powerful factions, including Kataeb Hezbollah, oppose giving up their arms.
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★ THE GULF
France and Saudi Arabia Sign Major Cooperation Agreements
France and Saudi Arabia signed multiple cooperation agreements during Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Paris visit, covering defense, AI, health and energy. The leaders also backed major investment projects, including a €6 billion entertainment complex, while coordinating on security in Iran, Gaza, Lebanon, and the Red Sea.
Iran War Drives Higher Insurance Risks for Saudi-Linked Ships
Saudi-linked ships face higher insurance costs and tighter coverage as the Iran war and Houthi attacks increase regional risks, the FT reported. Saudi Arabia is discussing a state-backed insurance scheme with London brokers that could provide up to 700 million riyals ($186 million) per event, backed by Saudi EXIM Bank. Talks remain ongoing.
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★ SYRIA
Washington Removes Syria From Terror List, Ending Decades of Isolation
The US has removed Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism, easing restrictions on aid, defense exports and financial transactions. The move follows broader efforts to reintegrate Syria into the global economy, as the IMF begins formal cooperation with Damascus on financial and banking reforms and reports signs of economic recovery.
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★ ISRAEL
Netanyahu Says Iran Tried to Assassinate One of His Sons
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Iran attempted to assassinate one of his sons, citing the threat as justification for extended security for his family. Israel’s military censor barred details about the alleged plot, while critics questioned the disclosure’s timing ahead of October elections and linked it to efforts to maintain lifelong protection.
E1 Settlement Plan Deepens Israel-Europe Economic Tensions
Israel’s E1 settlement project has intensified tensions with Europe, as Spain, Ireland and the Netherlands restrict settlement-linked trade, while Britain, Norway, Belgium and Luxembourg consider similar measures. Britain is also weighing “comprehensive measures” over plans for 1,200 housing units, amid EU divisions over coordinated action.
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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.
