European governments rejected President Trump’s request to deploy naval assets to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz, even as some capitals weighed limited forms of support. Trump framed allied hesitation as a loyalty test, underscoring strains in transatlantic coordination as the conflict with Iran enters its third week.
Source: The New York Times
Tanker hit near Hormuz as UAE intercepts Iranian drones and missiles
A commercial tanker was struck near an Emirati port in the first such attack in five days, renewing security fears around the Strait of Hormuz. The United Arab Emirates also reported intercepting Iranian drones and missiles, highlighting persistent risks to Gulf shipping lanes and port infrastructure.
Source: The New York Times
Missiles and drones target U.S. Embassy in Baghdad as regional conflict spreads
Missiles and at least five drones struck at the U.S. Embassy compound in Baghdad, according to Iraqi security sources. The attack, amid surging tensions tied to the Iran war, underscores Iraq’s vulnerability as a battleground for Iran-aligned militias and raises the risk of broader U.S.-Iran escalation on Iraqi soil.
Source: Khaama Press
Cuba’s grid collapses nationwide as Trump says it would be an “honor” to “take Cuba”
A complete disconnection of Cuba’s National Electric System plunged the island into darkness, compounding a deepening energy crisis. As backchannel talks continued, President Trump escalated rhetoric, saying it would be a “great honor” to “take Cuba in some form,” signaling mounting U.S. pressure amid Havana’s crisis.
Source: MercoPress
Kabul says hundreds killed in Pakistani strike; Islamabad denies hitting hospital
Afghan officials reported that an airstrike by Pakistan on a Kabul drug rehabilitation facility killed hundreds and wounded many more; Pakistan rejected the claim, saying it targeted a weapons depot. The allegation marks a sharp escalation in cross-border hostilities following Pakistan’s recent operations against militants.
Source: The New York Times
North Korea fires 10 ballistic missiles amid U.S.–South Korea drills
Pyongyang launched an unusually large barrage of 10 missiles as allied exercises continued, seeking to command attention while the world’s focus is divided by multiple crises. The tests probe allied missile defenses and reinforce North Korea’s deterrence posture in Northeast Asia.
Source: The Diplomat
Russia reports record drone raids on Moscow region, signaling deepening long-range war
Russian authorities said air defenses downed more than 200 Ukrainian drones overnight in one of the largest attempted strikes in at least a year, with injuries reported in the Belgorod region. The scale points to the expanding role of long-range UAVs in the conflict and growing pressure on air defenses far from the front.
Source: TASS
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