Middle East

IDF says the deployment is routine activity planned in advance as part of ongoing security cooperation with the United States.

The IDF head of Military Intelligence, alongside senior officials from other intelligence agencies, focused in part on the intelligence required for a possible strike. Also discussed was how economic pressure on Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps could support a military campaign against the Islamic Republic.

As Iran steps up military preparations amid rising tensions with Washington, Tehran has begun building urban bomb shelters and preparing its metro system for emergency use, while the Iranian military reports new weapons deliveries and heightened readiness.

Tehran has issued a warning to maritime traffic regarding upcoming live-fire naval exercises in the Strait of Hormuz. According to The Associated Press, the drills involve "naval shooting" and could impact 20% of global oil transit.

Turkish and US leaders spoke by phone, during which Ankara put forward a proposal that the American president did not reject. Reports said the White House was examining a range of strike options following the collapse of talks between the two sides.

Omani mediation on nuclear limits failed to progress, according to CNN. Israeli officials do not believe that air power is sufficient for collapse, according to Reuters. Strikes could include government bodies, nuclear sites, and security officials held accountable for protester deaths.

Iran and the US are holding quiet contacts mediated by Oman, Qatar and apparently also Turkey, aimed at reaching a diplomatic solution to the nuclear issue and other matters on the agenda. Sources say Iran is showing flexibility, pointing to intense pressure on the regime

A phone call took place between the Iranian president and the Saudi crown prince against the backdrop of tensions with the US. According to Tehran, the discussion focused on regional and international developments. The Iranian presidential office said the Saudi crown prince told Pezeshkian that the kingdom “declares its readiness for full cooperation with Iran.”

Sources close to Iran's Jewish population counter social media claims, stressing community remains unharmed and faithful to Tehran authorities.

Trump briefed on potential end of ayatollah's rule. Military officials cited by the NYT stated that if the White House ordered a strike, the carrier group could theoretically take action within one or two days.