Here's what's happening in the ongoing conflict as it enters its thirteenth day.
On Wednesday, President Donald Trump told supporters in Kentucky that the U.S. had already "won" the war against Iran, claiming U.S. forces have severely weakened Iran's military capabilities. He didn't offer a timeline for when the fighting might actually stop, which is the kind of detail that tends to matter to people living in the region.
Meanwhile, back in the realm of tangible policy, Energy Secretary Chris Wright announced the Department of Energy will start releasing 172 million barrels of oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve next week. The goal is to help keep energy prices in check while the conflict continues. It's a direct move to buffer the economy from war-related shocks.
UN Security Council Condemns Iran Attacks
The United Nations Security Council got involved on Wednesday, adopting a resolution that condemns Iran for attacks on Gulf countries and Jordan. The resolution demands that Tehran immediately stop the hostilities. It passed with 13 of the 15 council members voting in favor and was co-sponsored by 135 UN member states. That's a pretty clear international consensus, at least on paper.
Gavin Newsom Says "No Imminent" Threat
Over in California, Governor Gavin Newsom said there is no "imminent threat" to the state. This comes after an FBI memo warned officials about unverified claims that Iranian-linked actors might be considering potential drone attacks. Newsom's statement seems aimed at calming public nerves, even as security agencies are apparently circulating cautions internally.
Iran Speaks To Russia, Pakistan, Outlines Terms To End War
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Iran remains committed to regional peace after speaking with leaders of Russia and Pakistan. But he also laid out what it would take to end the war: recognition of Iran's rights, payment of reparations, and firm international guarantees to prevent future aggression. So, there's a price tag and a set of conditions on the table, at least from Tehran's perspective.
Citi, StanChart Evacuate Dubai Offices
The financial world is taking the threats seriously. Citibank plans to close all but one branch and evacuate some of its Dubai offices after Iran threatened to target financial institutions in the region. Standard Chartered has also begun evacuating offices in Dubai. This follows warnings from Iran's Khatam al-Anbiya military command headquarters that economic and banking interests linked to the U.S. and Israel could be targeted, according to reports.
Iran Condemns EU Sanctions
Iran isn't happy with Europe either. The country condemned new European Union sanctions on 19 officials and entities over alleged human rights abuses, calling them "absurd" and unlawful. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said the measures punish Iran for exercising self-defence. This came after EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas confirmed the sanctions were approved.
