Iran has warned its Gulf neighbors that complying with American sanctions would result in ships facing difficulties crossing the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Military spokesman Mohammad Akraminia stated vessels would encounter 'severe consequences' without prior coordination with Tehran, according to state news agency IRNA.
Meanwhile, a commercial vessel was struck by an unknown projectile off the coast of Qatar, causing a small fire but no casualties. Both Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates reported intercepting drones. These incidents follow Friday's clash between Iranian forces and US Navy destroyers enforcing a blockade of Iranian ports.
The US-led blockade aims to cut off Iranian oil exports, while Tehran leverages its control over the waterway through which roughly one-fifth of global oil and gas typically flows. Defense ministers from over 40 nations are scheduled to meet Monday to discuss UK-led plans for protecting shipping in the strait once hostilities cease.
President Donald Trump insists a ceasefire from last month remains in effect and told a French reporter he expects to hear from Iran soon. Tehran says it is reviewing a White House proposal, with Pakistan acting as mediator.