Trump has slowed down immediate military action in the Strait of Hormuz, opting instead for a calculated exit strategy while allowing Iran temporary operational control of the vital trade route. The US now aims to weaken Iran’s naval and missile capabilities before stepping back, as oil markets stabilize slightly after a sharp surge. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts are being prepared to reopen the Strait, with allies ready to step in if needed, even as tensions remain high following the killing of a key Iranian naval commander linked to the blockade. WATCH

A dramatic escalation in Gulf tensions has unfolded after a suspected Iran-linked drone strike set a Kuwaiti-flagged oil tanker Al-Salmi ablaze near Dubai’s anchorage. The vessel, fully loaded with crude, caught fire following a direct hit, triggering a massive emergency response from maritime authorities. Firefighting teams were quickly deployed to contain the blaze, while early reports confirm that all 24 crew members are safe with no injuries. However, the situation remains critical as damage assessment begins and concerns grow over a potential oil spill in one of the world’s busiest energy corridors. The incident comes amid a wider pattern of escalating drone and missile activity targeting commercial shipping across the Gulf. Reports of projectiles near Saudi Arabia’s Ras Tanura and rising threats around the Strait of Hormuz are adding to fears of a broader disruption to global oil supply chains.