Iran activates air defences as Trump faces congressional deadline

Key Points:

• Tehran's air defenses were briefly activated to counter small aircraft and drones, while the White House indicated it would not be constrained by a congressional deadline on authorizing war against Iran, citing a ceasefire that paused the 60-day authorization clock.
• Iran's supreme leader declared the US had suffered a "shameful defeat" and asserted Iran's control over the Strait of Hormuz, dismissing US threats of a prolonged naval blockade and predicting a future Gulf free of US interference.
• The US imposed a blockade on Iranian ports and is seeking an international coalition to ensure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, while President Trump criticized NATO allies for insufficient support and threatened troop withdrawals from Europe.
• Israeli Defense Minister warned of potential renewed military action against Iran, while Iran's Revolutionary Guards vowed strong retaliation to any attacks; meanwhile, Tehran residents expressed despair over stalled negotiations and ongoing conflict.
• The blockade and conflict have driven oil prices to a four-year high, with UN and energy officials warning of a severe global energy crisis; the US also urged talks between Lebanese and Israeli leaders amid ongoing violence in southern Lebanon linked to the broader Middle East war.