The Digest: Iran has vowed defiance against President Donald Trump, who threatened to destroy the country's oil export hub of Kharg Island along with power and desalination plants, unless Tehran accepts a deal to end the war. The Iranian parliamentary committee voted to impose tolls on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz and completely ban ships from the United States and Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said more than half of his military aims have been achieved, but refused to put a timeline on the operation. Two Indonesian peacekeepers were killed in Lebanon.
Key Points:
- Trump threatened to destroy Kharg Island, power plants, and desalination facilities if Iran rejects a deal.
- Iran plans to impose tolls on Strait of Hormuz vessels and ban US and Israeli ships.
- Netanyahu claims Israel has achieved over half its military objectives in Iran.
- Two Indonesian peacekeepers were killed in Lebanon; France called for an urgent UN Security Council meeting.
- Oil prices have risen nearly 60 percent this month, with Brent crude approaching $150 per barrel.
As Trump threatens devastating strikes on Iranian infrastructure and Iran refuses to back down, the conflict shows no signs of de-escalation, with global oil markets and regional stability hanging in the balance.
Sources: AFP, Vanguard News
