💥 U.S. STRIKES IRANIAN LAUNCHERS ON LARAK ISLAND: A U.S. official told Al Jazeera that U.S. forces struck two Iranian launch platforms on Larak Island that were preparing to fire missiles toward the Strait of Hormuz. At least two people were killed. The IRGC said fighters and civilians were killed or wounded and vowed a response, while senior Iranian lawmaker Ebrahim Azizi warned that retaliation was coming. Intense U.S. military aircraft activity was also reported over Baghdad.
⚓ GULF AND RED SEA MARITIME PRESSURES CONTINUE: Bahrain’s Foreign Ministry said its Coast Guard is investigating reports that a Bahraini-flagged vessel was hijacked and robbed at gunpoint before being forced into waters claimed by Iran. Separately, according to the Israeli Broadcasting Authority, Washington rejected Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s request for the U.S. to lead a military campaign against the Houthis. U.S. officials reportedly offered support for a Saudi-led operation but declined to lead it, partly because current Houthi attacks are focused on Saudi-linked rather than U.S. vessels.
🛡️ ISRAELI NAVY RAISES READINESS AFTER TURKISH ENCOUNTER: Turkish warships approached Israeli Navy vessels in international Mediterranean waters and imposed specific navigation routes on them, according to the Israeli Broadcasting Authority. The Israeli Navy subsequently increased readiness and alert levels for possible further operational developments.
🎯 IDF ELIMINATES THREE HAMAS OPERATIVES IN GAZA: The IDF said Yasser Abu al-Khair and Mohammed al-Din, two Nukhba operatives in Hamas’ military wing, were eliminated near Khan Yunis after recently advancing attacks against troops and civilians and working to restore Hamas capabilities in systematic violation of the ceasefire. In a separate strike in Deir al-Balah, the IDF eliminated Hamas operative Hassam Osama Hussein Nasir, saying he was advancing attacks and posed an immediate threat.
⛽ SMOTRICH MOVES TO OFFSET EXPECTED FUEL-PRICE INCREASES: Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich instructed officials to advance a reduction in Israel’s gasoline excise tax amid an expected fuel-price surge resulting from the blockade on Iran. The Finance Ministry said professional discussions are determining the size and implementation mechanism, with Smotrich seeking to sign the order and bring the reduction into effect within days.
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