President Donald Trump asserts that Iran will never possess a nuclear weapon, while questioning the effectiveness of the recent ceasefire over oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. In a post on Truth Social, Trump dismissed claims of a premature victory, stating: “Actually, it is a Victory… Because of me, IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON.” He further accused Iran of mishandling traffic through the vital strait, describing it as a “very poor job, dishonourable some would say.”
Challenges Persist in Strait of Hormuz Ceasefire
Shipping remains heavily disrupted in the Strait of Hormuz, indicating the ceasefire has not fully taken effect. Trump conditioned the agreement on Iran reopening the route. Officials note Trump is evaluating the withdrawal of some U.S. troops from Europe due to limited NATO support for securing the waterway.
Islamabad Locks Down for Crucial US-Iran Talks
Pakistan’s capital Islamabad deploys over 10,000 security personnel ahead of key US-Iran peace negotiations. Military-led measures include 6,000 local police, 900 Frontier Constabulary troops, 3,000 Punjab Constabulary members, Rangers, Army units, and 1,000 traffic officers. The high-security red zone around government and diplomatic sites sees heightened vigilance.
Talks begin Saturday, with delegations arriving Friday. A 30-member U.S. team has reviewed arrangements. Vice President JD Vance leads the U.S. side with envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Iran sends Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.
Australia Bolsters Fuel Security in Singapore Talks
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese meets Singapore’s Lawrence Wong to address fuel supply disruptions from the Iran conflict. Albanese highlights global fuel security concerns, noting Singapore supplies 54.7% of Australia’s petrol—nearly 6 billion liters annually—plus diesel and jet fuel.
Singapore, Asia’s oil hub, faces refinery cuts despite 1.2 million barrels per day capacity due to strait closures. Australia provides one-third of Singapore’s LNG imports. Albanese states: “Australia and Singapore are strategically aligned… and that is why it’s so important that at difficult times in the world we can rely upon each other.”
Markets Rise on Ceasefire Optimism
Stocks climb as investors eye the US-Iran ceasefire before weekend talks. Asian markets like Tokyo, Hong Kong, Seoul, Shanghai, and Taipei gain at least 1%. Singapore and Manila advance, despite a Sydney dip, following Wall Street’s S&P 500 rise of 0.6%. Brent crude edges up 1% to $96.83 per barrel amid supply worries.
US Declares Iran Faces Long-Term Military Setback
U.S. Central Command leader Admiral Brad Cooper describes Iran’s situation as a “generational military defeat.” In a social media video, he says: “The United States and Israel systemically destroyed Iran’s ability to conduct large-scale military operations for years to come.” Cooper adds U.S. forces remain vigilant during the two-week ceasefire.
US Calls in Iraqi Ambassador Over Baghdad Drone Strike
The U.S. summons Iraq’s ambassador after a drone attack near diplomatic sites in Baghdad. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau meets Nizar Khirullah, urging action against Iran-backed militias blamed for strikes on the Diplomatic Support Center and airport. Washington demands Iraq dismantle these groups, citing state support. Violence surges in Iraq, killing dozens including civilians, Shi’ite forces, Kurdish fighters, and security personnel.
Other Key Developments
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu authorizes direct talks with Lebanon soon after a deadly strike kills 300. Kuwait’s National Guard reports a drone hit on a military base, causing damage but no casualties.
Trump criticizes conservative figures Tucker Carlson, Megyn Kelly, Candace Owens, and Alex Jones on Truth Social, calling them “losers” with “Low IQs” for opposing the Iran conflict. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer notes Gulf leaders were “shocked” by Iranian attacks. Iran’s IRGC denies post-ceasefire strikes on Gulf nations, stating no launches occurred.
