The Digest:
President Donald Trump has declared that US military operations in Iran will "end very soon," reassuring markets thrown into chaos by the escalating conflict. Speaking at a Florida news conference, Trump stated: "It's going to be ended soon, and if it starts up again, they'll be hit even harder." The announcement sent oil prices tumbling up to five percent after benchmark crude had rocketed past $100, its highest level since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. However, Iran's Revolutionary Guards quickly responded that they, not the Americans, would "determine the end of the war." The remarks came as Iran's new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, assumed power, with Iranian forces launching fresh missile and drone attacks on Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, the UAE, and Israel. Another missile was fired at NATO member Turkey, intercepted by alliance defenses. Diplomatic efforts focus on reopening the strategic Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly 20% of global crude transits, with France proposing a "purely defensive" escort mission.
Key Points
- Trump vows war will "end very soon"; markets rally, oil prices drop 5%.
- Iran's Revolutionary Guards reject US timeline: "We will determine the end."
- New Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei assumes power amid fresh attacks.
- Missiles were fired at Gulf states, Israel, and NATO member Turkey.
- France proposes a defensive mission to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
- At least 486 killed in Lebanon as Hezbollah-Israel exchanges intensify.
Sources: Presidential Remarks, AFP, Reuters
