Overview
- Joseph Kent, the U.S. National Counterterrorism Center chief, stepped down, saying the United States was misled about an imminent Iranian threat and that he cannot support the ongoing war.
- President Trump warned NATO could face a 'very bad' future if allies refuse to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz, but the UK, Germany and others signaled they will not send warships, and Finland’s president cited the lack of prior U.S. consultations.
- Iran’s actions have effectively contested the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting roughly one‑fifth of global oil shipments as prices climbed above $100 a barrel, with U.S. oil executives warning of continued market volatility.
- Regional mediation has stalled, with Reuters reporting the White House rejected overtures from Oman and Egypt, while Tehran refuses a ceasefire until U.S. and Israeli strikes stop and presses demands including compensation.
- U.S. attention to the Iran campaign has delayed Ukraine talks, and new polling shows Americans remain divided over the operation, with support edging up but concerns persisting over aims and costs.