Overview
- The Strait of Hormuz remains effectively disrupted after nearly three weeks of fighting, and Iran's leaders issued defiant messages that included threats against global tourist sites.
- The administration confirmed that three additional warships carrying roughly 2,500 Marines are moving to the region, expanding the U.S. naval and Marine presence.
- A White House spokeswoman said U.S. forces can “neutralize” Iran's Kharg island on presidential order, while a media report about plans to occupy or blockade the terminal was disputed by administration sources.
- President Trump ruled out a cease-fire and cast the campaign as progressing “extremely well,” as Pentagon planning for possible troop contingencies continues without a decision to deploy ground forces.
- Trump castigated NATO allies for refusing to join a mission to reopen the Strait and pressed partners, including Japan, to take on greater responsibility for maritime security.