Trump Briefed on Iran Military Plans; Naval Blockade Spikes Oil to 4-Year High
President Trump anticipates a briefing on military options for Iran, while a US naval blockade has driven oil prices to a four-year high. Russia warned against resuming war, and the blockade has prevented Iran from selling over $6 billion in oil. Violence persists in Lebanon, with Israeli strikes wounding and killing Lebanese soldiers.
President Donald Trump stated a US naval blockade against Iran could last months, causing oil prices to spike to their highest level in over four years. Trump is expected to be briefed today by Admiral Brad Cooper, head of US Central Command, on new plans for potential military action in Iran.
Yesterday, Trump spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who warned of «damaging consequences» if the US and Israel resume their war on Iran. Trump, meeting oil executives, argued the blockade of Iranian ports was more effective than bombing. US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced it had redirected the 42nd commercial vessel violating the blockade, noting 41 tankers with 69 million barrels of oil, valued over $6 billion, are unsellable by Iran.
Oil prices soared, with US benchmark Brent spiking over seven percent to $126.41 for June delivery, and West Texas Intermediate up around three percent to $110.31. Trump also threatened to reduce US troops in Germany due to Berlin’s refusal to support the war or contribute to a peacekeeping force in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran’s parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, stated the blockade aims to create division and cause internal collapse.
Violence continued on the Lebanese front, with Israel and Hezbollah extending a ceasefire. However, the Lebanese army reported an Israeli strike wounded two soldiers on Tuesday and killed another on Wednesday. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun urged Israel to fully implement the ceasefire for negotiations. A UN-backed report indicated over 1.2 million people in Lebanon face acute hunger due to the recent conflict.