The latest
President Donald Trump cast doubt on the future of the preliminary cease-fire with Iran, saying at the NATO summit in Ankara: “To me, I think it’s over,” after U.S. strikes on Iran and Iranian attacks on American military sites in the Gulf.
Details
• Trump’s position: Trump accused Iran of violating the agreement, while saying he would still allow his negotiating team to continue talks.
• Iran’s attack: The IRGC said it targeted 85 U.S. military sites in Bahrain and Kuwait and shot down an MQ-9 drone.
• Kuwait’s account: Kuwait’s military said it intercepted 2 ballistic missiles and 13 drones, with no damage or casualties reported.
• U.S. strikes: The Pentagon said the latest strikes were retaliation for attacks on 3 commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz.
• Oil market: The New York Times reported Brent crude rose about 5% to around $78 a barrel after Trump’s remarks.
Background
The preliminary agreement was signed more than 3 weeks ago in Switzerland. It was intended to halt hostilities, reopen the Strait of Hormuz and create space for broader negotiations.
What to watch
The next signals will be Washington’s response to attacks in Bahrain and Kuwait, the fate of U.S.-Iran talks, and whether Qatar and Pakistan continue mediation after Trump questioned the cease-fire.
