The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said on Wednesday that it received reports of increased tensions in the Persian Gulf, Gulf of Oman and Straits of Hormuz. It warned the situation could lead to an “escalation of military activity having a direct impact on mariners.” The UKMTO advised vessels to transit the area with caution and report incidents or suspicious activity.
CENTCOM chief presented options for Iran strike
United States Central Command (CENTCOM) chief, General Michael Kurilla, revealed Tuesday that the Pentagon presented President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth with a “wide range of options” for a strike on Iran if no agreement about its nuclear program was reached. During his testimony before the House Armed Services Committee on US military posture in the Middle East and Africa, Kurilla referred to Iran as a “malign” actor, emphasizing the importance of deterrence for regional stability. The latest round of US-Iran talks is expected to be held in Oman on Sunday. Meanwhile, Trump repeatedly declared that failure to reach an agreement would lead to military action against Iran.