Here are the latest developments in the U.S.–Israel–Iran war on Tuesday at 3 AM ET, as the conflict enters its eighteenth day.
On Monday, countries like Germany, Spain, and Italy rejected President Donald Trump‘s call to deploy naval forces to open the Strait of Hormuz, citing a lack of authorization from the United Nations and NATO. Trump said some nations were initially open, and more support could follow, while criticizing major oil-dependent countries like China and Japan for not backing the move.
Meanwhile, Axios reported that a direct communication line between U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi was recently reactivated. However, Araghchi denied the report and said he last spoke to Witkoff before the U.S. launched a military attack on Iran, which he claims ended diplomatic efforts. He dismissed reports of continued contact as false and said they were aimed at misleading oil markets and the public.
Iran Seeks Mexico Shift For FIFA Matches
Iran is in talks with FIFA to move its World Cup matches to Mexico, citing security concerns after Trump expressed concerns over the team’s safety during the sporting event. Iranian football chief Mehdi Taj said the team will not travel to the U.S., where some matches were originally scheduled, as Trump wasn’t able to guarantee their safety.
Baghdad Blasts Kill 4, Hit Embassy
Explosions struck Baghdad, killing at least four in an air raid on an Iran-backed group’s building, while drones also targeted the U.S. Embassy area in the Green Zone, reported Al Jazeera.
Hong Kong Warns Of Oil Shock Risks
Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee warned that the war could disrupt oil supplies, driving price spikes and causing economic volatility across Asia. He expressed concern over rising fuel costs and said the government is working to maintain stable energy supplies, reported Hong Kong Free Press.
UKMTO Flags Tanker Hit Off Fujairah
A tanker anchored off Fujairah in the Gulf of Oman was hit by an unknown projectile, causing minor damage but no injuries or environmental harm, UK’s Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said, urging vessels to remain cautious.
South Korea To Limit Energy Exports Amid ‘Worst-Case’ Crisis
South Korea’s president, Lee Jae Myung, warned of “worst-case” energy risks if the Middle East crisis drags on, urging efforts to secure alternative supplies, consider limiting exports if needed, and accelerate renewable energy development, reported The Hawk on Tuesday.
Image via Shutterstock
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