Morning update
Good morning Middle East Eye readers,
Fresh developments point to intensifying pressure on Iran alongside continued violence in Lebanon and rising geopolitical strain. Air defence activity in Israel, new US sanctions targeting Iranian-linked networks and reports of maritime disruption underline the breadth of the crisis.
Diplomatic signals remain mixed, with Washington and Tehran maintaining indirect contact even as rhetoric hardens and military activity persists across multiple fronts.
Here are the key developments:
US President Donald Trump said he is "not happy" with new proposals from Iran, adding that negotiators have asked for concessions he “could not give”.
US has ramped up pressure with sanctions on Iranian currency firms and China-based oil terminal.
Iran has urged the US to drop “threatening rhetoric” as indirect talks reportedly continue by phone.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei called for focus on domestic production, describing it as “economic jihad”.
At least 23 were reported killed in Israeli attacks on Lebanon, Anadolu Agency reports.
Israeli military says sirens sounded as incoming targets were intercepted.
Hezbollah says it targeted Israeli troops in southern Lebanon amid ongoing clashes.
Washington says 45 ships turned back under Iran-linked blockade in regional waters.
China questions ceasefire as Israel continues bombardment in Lebanon.