Hostilities between the United States and Iran have resumed after a series of military actions and diplomatic escalations. Tehran accused the US of violating a ceasefire agreement established in April, following US military strikes targeting over 80 sites in response to Iranian attacks on three commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps reported that 85 facilities had been targeted.

The US also revoked a temporary sanctions waiver on Iranian oil exports, contributing to a 3% immediate rise in oil prices.

At the NATO summit in Ankara, President Donald Trump declared the memorandum of understanding with Iran to be over. He described Iran's leaders as “vicious, violent people” and referred to them as “scum,” stating he would not engage with them. Despite this, Trump indicated that talks might continue.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte supported the US military response, emphasizing the importance of a forceful reaction to Iran's ceasefire violations.

Separately, in US politics, Senator Bernie Sanders urged Graham Platner to withdraw from the Senate race in Maine amid serious allegations of sexual assault. Platner has denied these allegations. According to state law, Platner must end his campaign by 5pm ET on July 13 to allow Democrats to select a replacement candidate before the July 27 deadline for the November midterm elections.

Sources: Guardian US

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