Category: Middle East
The latest Middle East news, analysis and OSINT reporting, covering conflict, diplomacy, energy, security, politics and major regional developments. Stay informed on the stories shaping the Gulf, the Levant, North Africa and surrounding areas.
Iran Launches Missiles After U.S. Conducts Defensive Strikes on Larak Island
Iran launched missiles Sunday after U.S. forces struck two IRGC launchers on Larak Island, sharply escalating tensions around the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz waterway.
U.S. allies doubt Strait of Hormuz is fully cleared of mines
U.S. allies privately believe mines may still remain in the Strait of Hormuz despite President Donald Trump's claim that the U.S. Navy has completely cleared the strategic waterway.
Iran, Oman reach Hormuz Corridor understanding, deal still elusive
Iran and Oman have made progress toward a temporary shipping corridor and mine-clearing framework in the Strait of Hormuz, but a senior Iranian source says no final agreement has been reached.
UAE halts all trade and financial transactions with Iran
he United Arab Emirates has suspended trade, commercial exchanges and financial transactions with Iran, cutting a major economic lifeline for Tehran.
KRG says drones targeting Barzani office were launched from Iran
Kurdish authorities say two Hadid-110 drones launched from Iranian territory targeted Prime Minister Masrour Barzani’s office and the home of the Kurdistan Region’s intelligence chief.
Iran Hardliners Prepare for Wider War
Iran’s leadership has spent the past two months restructuring military command, accelerating missile production and preparing for prolonged conflict despite continuing negotiations with Washington.
Trump’s Secret Backchannel to Iran’s IRGC
The Trump administration used Iraqi Kurdish President Nechirvan Barzani as a secret backchannel to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard in May, but the effort has not produced a deal.
Iran, Qatar Dispute Fate of Pilots
Iran says three pilots remain detained in Qatar, while Doha denies holding them and says search teams recovered only one pilot’s remains after the March incident.
U.S. Plans Unprecedented Economic Isolation of Iran
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent says Washington will announce new measures next week combining intensified financial pressure with an open-ended naval blockade aimed at further isolating Iran.