Iran loses grip on Strait of Hormuz as US as Tehran calls on Americans to vote out Trump

Key Points:

• Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has issued a 25-page letter directly appealing to American voters to oppose President Donald Trump and push for an end to the war, blaming Trump and U.S. support for Israel for ongoing conflicts.
• The letter accuses Trump of misleading Americans about Iran’s nuclear program and the U.S. economy, while Iran faces severe economic challenges, including a record low rial exchange rate.
• The U.S. military officially ended its 12-year mission in Iraq on November 3, 2024, concluding Operation Inherent Resolve, which defeated ISIS but leaves Iraq responsible for its own security amid threats from ISIS remnants and Iran-backed militias.
• The withdrawal was part of an agreement reached under President Joe Biden’s administration, reflecting a shift in U.S. military engagement in the region, similar to the 2021 Afghanistan withdrawal, but occurring in a more complex security environment.
• The Pentagon emphasized continued U.S. support through training and intelligence for Iraqi forces, while holding the Iraqi government primarily responsible for maintaining stability and countering remaining threats.