Back To The Hormuz Tit For Tat.
• Iran warns US after strikes: Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps says it has a “legitimate” right to respond to any “violation” of the ceasefire after the US military carried out what it called “self-defense strikes” targeting Iranian missile launch sites and boats around the Strait of Hormuz. It is unclear how the attacks will affect the ceasefire.
• War negotiations: The strikes came hours after Iranian negotiators met with Qatari mediators in Doha for talks in coordination with the US. The US and Iran are working toward a “memorandum of understanding,” but disputes over language concerning Iran’s nuclear program and sanctions have held up a deal.
• Israel hardens stance: In Lebanon, Israel is preparing to expand its attacks against Hezbollah, including in Beirut, an Israeli source said. A US official signaled Washington’s support for Israel’s approach.
The Trump Administration is again bombing Iran and the corresponding oil prices jump almost immediately. Iran is well aware of the damage the war is causing to American consumers and is determined to make sure it lasts as long as possible. No good options appear to be on the table for the Trump Administration to proceed but that is the hand that has been dealt. Iran clearly has a significant advantage.
