Trump says ‘anything could happen’ in US-Iran war ahead of meeting with Gulf leaders

Key Points:

• South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has firmly ruled out deploying military assets to the Middle East in any conflict involving the US and Iran, emphasizing minimal measures to protect commercial shipping and citizens instead.
• Despite earlier discussions, South Korea will not participate militarily in US operations against Iran, following a request from former President Donald Trump for support.
• Commercial shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remains about 90% below pre-conflict levels amid increased US enforcement actions targeting Iranian-linked vessels, contributing to rising gas prices in the US.
• A tanker was struck by an unknown projectile while leaving the Strait of Hormuz, with Iranian state media claiming responsibility for targeting a Togo-flagged oil tanker for unauthorized passage, though damage and environmental impact remain unclear.
• Experts warn Iran faces mounting military and economic pressure that could lead to either escalation of conflict with the US or potential internal collapse, with both outcomes considered possible simultaneously.