Tehran: Iran has issued a stern warning to both Israel and the United States, threatening a strong response if military actions in Lebanon do not come to an immediate halt. This follows a significant Israeli offensive against Hezbollah in Lebanon, which resulted in over 1,500 casualties in just a single day.
According to Thai News Agency, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has heightened its rhetoric against both nations, signaling increased tensions after a two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran. The ceasefire, brokered by Pakistan, is being contested by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump, who argue that it does not extend to Lebanon. Trump emphasized that the conflict with Hezbollah is a separate issue, while Pakistan insists the ceasefire includes all fronts.
The situation escalated as the Israeli military executed its largest offensive against Lebanon since operations began, targeting over 100 sites within a mere 10 minutes. The Lebanese Ministry of Health reported at least 254 deaths and over 1,165 injuries. In retaliation, Iran has suspended oil tanker passage through the Strait of Hormuz, threatening to abandon the ceasefire if the attacks persist.
US Vice President JD Vance described the situation as a misunderstanding and urged Iran to show sincerity in negotiations or face potential military action from Trump. Netanyahu echoed this sentiment, expressing readiness to resume conflict with Iran. Meanwhile, leaders from the UK, France, Germany, and Canada urged adherence to the ceasefire, including Lebanon, for civilian safety.
Simultaneously, reports of attacks continue. Iranian media reported an attack on an oil refinery on Lavan Island, labeling it an "enemy attack" despite no identified perpetrators. Kuwait's military reported drone strikes causing extensive damage to key infrastructure, while the UAE confirmed interception of missiles and drones from Iran. Shrapnel landed at Abu Dhabi's Habshan gas field, igniting a fire and injuring three.
As for US-Iran negotiations, Trump announced plans to conduct them secretly in Islamabad, Pakistan, this Saturday. The US negotiating team, led by Vice President Vance, US Special Envoy Steven Whitkoff, and Jared Kushner, stressed the importance of swift negotiations to resolve the conflict. Trump warned against fake proposals from unrelated individuals, threatening legal action.
Amidst these developments, the IRGC issued warnings via international maritime radio, stating the Strait of Hormuz remains closed without prior permission from the Iranian Navy. The White House condemned this closure, urging immediate reopening. The closure has stranded approximately 800-2,000 cargo and oil tankers in the Persian Gulf, crippling maritime traffic to less than 10% of pre-war levels.