Donald Trump has stated there is "no time frame" for ending the war with Iran, despite extending a ceasefire indefinitely. The former president denied being influenced by upcoming midterm elections, asserting his focus was on securing "a good deal for the American people."
Iran Seizes Ships in Strait of Hormuz
Iran seized two ships, the MSC Francesca and Epaminondas, in the Strait of Hormuz, citing alleged maritime violations. A third vessel was fired upon. Iran's parliament speaker declared reopening the Strait "impossible" due to perceived ceasefire breaches by the US and Israel.
Ceasefire in Lebanon Nears Expiration
A two-week-old ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon is nearing its expiration, with continued violence in southern Lebanon. Israeli strikes killed at least five people, among them a journalist, prompting retaliatory actions from Hezbollah.
Global Economic Impact
Norway's $2.2 trillion sovereign wealth fund, the world's largest, reported a first-quarter loss of 636 billion Norwegian crowns ($68.44 billion), attributed to the war's effect on global stocks. Major UK supermarkets, including Sainsbury's and Tesco, expressed concerns over the war's impact on their profits and customers, as UK inflation rose to 3.3 per cent.
Iran Executes Prisoner
Iran executed Soltanali Shirzadi Fakhr, convicted of ties to an exiled opposition group and Israeli intelligence.
Pentagon Briefing on Sea Mines
US officials reportedly estimated it could take up to six months to clear sea mines in the Strait of Hormuz, a detail shared during a classified Pentagon briefing.
