Morning update

Fresh US attacks on Iran were reported, despite President Donald Trump's comments suggesting a potential deal with Tehran was still possible. The US strikes were part of a response to recent Iranian attacks on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed to have targeted vessels, military bases, and infrastructure. The situation escalated when two Iranian cruise missiles struck two UAE national vessels in Omani territorial waters, resulting in the death of one Indian crew member and injuries to eight others, four of whom were seriously wounded. President Trump stated that the US had hit Iran "very hard" in response to these provocations. He indicated that the US and Iran were close to an agreement before the attacks occurred, expressing frustration over Iran's actions following negotiations. In light of the ongoing tensions, Trump announced that the US would reinstate a blockade on Iran in the Strait of Hormuz and charge ships for safe passage, branding the US as "THE GUARDIAN OF THE HORMUZ STRAIT." He specified that the US would seek reimbursement at a rate of 20% on all cargo shipped through this critical waterway. The IRGC reported that two "offending supertankers" had been hit and disabled in the Strait of Hormuz, further complicating the already tense situation. Trump has vowed to target Iran's bridges and power plants if the country does not return to negotiations, indicating a potential escalation in military actions. The US continues to assert its commitment to maintaining security in the region amidst these developments.