Iran Moves to Assert Control Over Strait While Trading Strikes With Israel
The New York Times • • world
Key Points:
- Iran asserted control over the Strait of Hormuz, warning three ships not to pass through the waterway amid tensions with the U.S. and plans to formalize tolls for vessels.
- Airstrikes continued in the region, with Iranian state media reporting attacks on a uranium processing plant, a nuclear research center, steel plants, and other industrial complexes.
- The Israeli military targeted a heavy-water plant in Arak, Iran, linked to potential plutonium production, damaging construction at the site, which has been a longstanding concern for Israel and the U.S.
- Iran's foreign minister Abbas Araghchi vowed a strong response to the strikes, condemning them as violations of President Trump's promise not to attack Iranian energy infrastructure.
- The Pentagon has deployed ground troops to the Middle East, fueling speculation about possible operations against Iran, including control of Kharg Island, though President Trump has denied plans for a ground invasion.
