Overview
- U.S. officials said three additional warships and roughly 2,500 Marines are being sent to the Middle East to reinforce Gulf operations, with no announced decision to send troops into Iran.
- Iran’s armed forces spokesperson warned that parks, resorts and tourist destinations worldwide would be unsafe for its adversaries, pledging to hunt foreign officials and commanders.
- During talks with Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, President Trump urged allies to help secure the Strait of Hormuz, praised Japan’s stated readiness, and deflected a question with a Pearl Harbor quip.
- Trump castigated NATO members for declining to send ships, the U.K. authorized U.S. use of British bases against missile sites, and White House officials said Kharg Island could be targeted if ordered as reports suggested a blockade or occupation is under consideration.
- Israel struck Tehran during Nowruz and Iran targeted Israel and Gulf energy facilities, keeping Hormuz traffic largely closed, lifting oil prices, and adding to reported casualties and displacement across the region.