US President Donald Trump has once again reiterated his claim that the United States has “total control” over the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, amid escalating tensions with Iran. Trump has also backed the idea of declaring the vital waterway a US territory.

Speaking to reporters, Trump defended the US naval blockade around Iran and described the operation as effective. He claimed that the Strait of Hormuz remains open and said oil prices were falling, while maintaining that Iran is facing severe economic pressure.

Growing Concerns Over Hormuz

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy corridors, making the ongoing confrontation a major concern for global oil markets. Shipping through the waterway has fallen sharply amid the conflict, raising fears of further disruptions to global energy supplies.

Iran, however, has rejected Trump’s claim and maintains that the waterway remains under its control. Tehran has also linked the reopening of the strait to changes in US policy and the lifting of the blockade.

Trump Warns Oman

Tensions have also increased over Oman’s diplomatic role. Oman has been involved in discussions with Iran regarding arrangements to restore shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Trump has warned Oman against taking steps that could interfere with Washington’s objectives and threatened military action if Muscat obstructs US efforts.

The standoff has already affected global energy markets. Oil prices rose again on August 18 as hopes for a US-Iran peace agreement weakened and concerns over supply disruptions increased. Brent crude climbed to around $91.76 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate reached about $85.55.

With US-Iran negotiations stalled and tensions surrounding Hormuz continuing, concerns are growing over the impact on international shipping, energy supplies and fuel prices.

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A new US intelligence assessment has reportedly indicated that Iran will retain full control over the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz under a proposed agreement between the United States and Iran. The development has sparked concern among some policymakers in Washington due to the waterway’s critical role in global oil transportation.

Strait of Hormuz Remains Strategically Important

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints, through which a significant portion of global oil exports passes every day. Any disruption in shipping through the strait can have major consequences for international energy markets and global trade.

According to the intelligence report, Iran would continue to exercise authority over the waterway and would retain the ability to regulate maritime activity in the region.

Concerns Raised in Washington

The prospect of Iran maintaining full control over the Strait of Hormuz has reportedly generated unease in certain circles within the United States. Critics argue that Tehran’s influence over the key shipping route could pose future strategic and economic challenges.

The concerns come amid broader discussions over regional security and the future of US-Iran relations.

Iran’s Military Capabilities Highlighted

Observers have pointed to Iran’s military capabilities, which were demonstrated during previous regional confrontations when Iranian forces reportedly launched missile attacks targeting US military installations in the Middle East.

Analysts believe these developments have reinforced perceptions of Iran’s growing strategic influence in the region.

Proposed Agreement Includes Nuclear Commitments

The reported agreement between Washington and Tehran is expected to include provisions aimed at preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons in the future.

US Vice President J.D. Vance has previously stated that one of the central conditions of the agreement would be Iran’s commitment not to pursue nuclear weapons development.

Ensuring Free Passage for Oil Tankers

The proposed deal is also said to contain provisions ensuring the uninterrupted movement of oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz. Maintaining stability in the waterway is considered essential for global energy security and international commerce.

Economic Benefits Linked to Compliance

Under the reported framework, Iran could receive economic incentives and financial benefits if it complies with the terms of the agreement. The arrangement is intended to encourage long-term adherence to the agreed conditions while reducing regional tensions.

Global Attention on Future Negotiations

As discussions surrounding the proposed agreement continue, governments and energy markets around the world are closely monitoring developments. Given the Strait of Hormuz’s importance to global oil supplies, any changes in its management or security arrangements could have far-reaching international implications.

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Modi, Trump Meet After 16 Months

The G7 Summit 2026 commenced today in Evian-les-Bains, France, bringing together leaders of the world’s most influential economies at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty. One of the key highlights of the opening day was the meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. President Donald Trump, their first face-to-face interaction in 16 months.

During the summit’s official group photograph, Prime Minister Modi was seen standing in the front row alongside President Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron, reflecting India’s growing significance in global affairs.

Focus on Global Economy, Ukraine War and AI

The three-day summit is focusing heavily on stabilizing the global economy, controlling inflation, and strengthening international trade networks disrupted by recent conflicts and post-pandemic challenges. Leaders are also expected to discuss the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, with Canada and several G7 nations proposing stricter measures against Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet” used for transporting oil.

India has also expressed concerns over rising tensions in the Middle East and the security of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global energy route. Discussions with the United States are expected to include coordinated strategies to address these challenges.

Artificial Intelligence, cybersecurity, climate change, and green energy transitions are among the summit’s top priorities. G7 leaders are working with major technology companies to develop global frameworks for the safe and responsible use of AI.

India’s Expanding Global Role

Although not a permanent member of the G7, India was invited as a special guest. Prime Minister Modi emphasized India’s role as a bridge between developed and developing nations and reiterated the concerns of the Global South.

Meanwhile, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated that the G7 no longer solely drives global governance, highlighting the growing importance of countries such as India and Brazil in addressing international challenges and shaping future global solutions.

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Trump Targets Media Coverage of Iran Conflict

US President Donald Trump has launched a sharp attack on American media outlets and the Democratic Party amid ongoing tensions with Iran. In a lengthy social media post, Trump alleged that sections of the US media would portray any outcome involving Iran as a victory for Tehran, regardless of the facts on the ground.

Trump claimed that even if Iran were to surrender completely, some media organizations would still present the situation as an Iranian success rather than an American achievement.

Iranian Embassy Responds to Trump’s Remarks

The Iranian Embassy in New Delhi responded to Trump’s comments through a social media post, offering a pointed reply to the US President.

The embassy stated that it would be willing to acknowledge a “historic victory” for Trump if the United States were to recognize Iran’s nuclear rights, end military operations, withdraw its forces from the region, lift naval blockades, remove sanctions imposed on the Iranian people, and compensate for damages caused by the conflict.

According to the embassy, under such circumstances, Iran would publicly declare that Trump had achieved a major and historic victory.

Strong Criticism of American News Organizations

In his post on Truth Social, Trump criticized several leading American media organizations, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and CNN.

He accused these outlets of biased reporting and alleged that they consistently misrepresent developments related to his administration and US foreign policy. Trump argued that regardless of military or diplomatic outcomes, certain sections of the media would refuse to acknowledge any success achieved by the United States under his leadership.

Claims About Iran’s Military Capabilities

Trump also made strong claims regarding Iran’s military situation, asserting that the country’s naval forces had been severely weakened and that its air force was no longer effective. He further alleged that Iranian military personnel had abandoned key positions.

The US President argued that even if Iran openly admitted defeat, media critics would still portray the situation as a setback for America.

Sharp Political Attack on Democrats

Alongside his criticism of the media, Trump also targeted the Democratic Party, accusing its leaders of losing touch with reality and engaging in politically motivated attacks.

His remarks included highly critical language directed at political opponents, reflecting the increasingly polarized nature of American political discourse amid ongoing international tensions.

Escalating War of Words

The exchange between Trump and the Iranian Embassy highlights the continuing war of words surrounding US-Iran relations. With tensions remaining high, diplomatic rhetoric from both sides continues to attract global attention as the international community closely watches developments in the region.

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Fuel Prices Increased for Third Time in 10 Days

Amid rising tensions in the Middle East, the burden of inflation continues to grow on common people in India as petrol and diesel prices have once again been increased across the country.

On Saturday, petrol prices were hiked by 87 paise per litre, while diesel prices increased by 91 paise per litre. This marks the third fuel price hike within the last 10 days.

Fuel Prices Up by Nearly ₹5 in 10 Days

Earlier, on May 15, petrol and diesel prices were increased by ₹3 per litre each. Again, on May 19, petrol became costlier by 87 paise and diesel by 91 paise.

With the latest revision, fuel prices have gone up by nearly ₹5 per litre over the past 10 days, adding pressure on household expenses and transportation costs.

New Fuel Prices in Delhi

Following the latest hike:

• Petrol price in Delhi has increased from ₹98.64 per litre to ₹99.51 per litre.
• Diesel price has risen from ₹91.58 per litre to ₹92.49 per litre.

The repeated rise in fuel prices is expected to impact the prices of essential commodities and transportation services across the country.

Inflation Concerns Grow Among Common People

The continuous increase in petrol and diesel prices has raised concerns over inflation and the rising cost of living. Experts believe global crude oil market fluctuations and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East are contributing to the recent fuel price surge.

Common people, transport operators, and businesses are likely to feel the impact as higher fuel costs could further push up prices of daily essentials in the coming days

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In a bold and potentially disruptive move, Iran is reportedly considering imposing a mandatory transit fee on all vessels passing through the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz. The proposal, if implemented, could have far-reaching consequences for global trade, energy prices, and geopolitical stability.

A Strategic Shift Amid Sanctions and Conflict

Facing mounting pressure from international sanctions—particularly from the United States—and the economic strain of recent aerial attacks on major cities, Tehran is exploring new revenue avenues. The proposed plan includes a reported 10% levy on commercial shipping using the narrow waterway.

The idea was highlighted by Foad Izadi, a professor at the University of Tehran, during a recent media interaction. According to Izadi, the toll system could generate an estimated $73 billion annually, offering a significant boost to Iran’s struggling economy.

World’s Most Critical Oil Chokepoint

The Strait of Hormuz is widely regarded as the most vital oil transit chokepoint globally. Nearly 20% of the world’s oil consumption passes through this narrow corridor each day, connecting major oil-producing nations in the Persian Gulf to global markets.

By introducing a transit fee, Iran aims not only to stabilize its domestic economy but also to secure funding for its ongoing military tensions involving Israel and the United States.

Global Concerns Over Economic Fallout

Industry experts warn that such a move could trigger a sharp rise in global shipping costs, directly impacting oil prices and overall energy markets. Increased transportation expenses are likely to cascade into higher costs for goods worldwide, potentially fueling inflation.

The international community is closely monitoring the situation, wary of a possible maritime crisis in an already volatile region. Any disruption in the free flow of vessels through the Strait could escalate geopolitical tensions and destabilize global trade routes.

High Stakes for Global Stability

While Tehran views the proposal as both a strategic and economic necessity, analysts caution that implementing such a toll could provoke strong reactions from global powers and shipping nations.

As deliberations continue, the world watches closely—aware that any shift in control or cost of passage through the Strait of Hormuz could have immediate and profound implications for the global economy.

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Tensions between Iran and the United States have escalated after Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a strong warning, claiming Tehran possesses advanced weapons capable of sinking US warships if provoked.

The remarks come amid heightened rhetoric and the reported deployment of two major US Navy vessels to the region, signalling increased military pressure.

Strategic Flashpoint: Strait of Hormuz

Khamenei underscored Iran’s preparedness to respond in the Persian Gulf, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz — a critical chokepoint through which a significant portion of the world’s oil supply passes.

“If pressure is put on Iran, it can target US warships,” he warned, asserting that Iran has developed weapons designed specifically to counter large naval assets.

Defence analysts note that Iran has spent more than a decade refining asymmetric warfare tactics suited for confined maritime environments, where smaller, agile platforms can challenge larger fleets.

‘Carrier Killer’ Missiles and Advanced Torpedoes

At the centre of Iran’s naval deterrence strategy is the Khalij Fars missile, often described as a “carrier killer.” The missile reportedly travels at speeds exceeding Mach 3 and is engineered to strike large vessels such as aircraft carriers with high precision. Its velocity makes interception difficult for conventional air defence systems.

Iran also fields the Hoot torpedo, capable of reaching speeds of up to 360 kilometres per hour underwater — significantly faster than standard torpedoes — potentially overwhelming naval defences.

Drone Swarms and Hypersonic Edge

Tehran’s arsenal includes suicide drones such as the Shahed drone and the Ababil drone, designed to attack in coordinated swarms. Military experts say such tactics can saturate and confuse advanced defence systems.

Iran has also unveiled the Fattah missile, described by officials as a hypersonic weapon capable of evading modern air defence networks. If operational as claimed, it would represent a significant technological advancement in the region’s missile landscape.

Calls for Diplomatic Restraint

Security analysts warn that escalating rhetoric and military deployments in the Gulf could increase the risk of miscalculation. Given the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz to global energy markets, any confrontation could have far-reaching economic and geopolitical consequences.

Experts are urging both Washington and Tehran to pursue diplomatic channels to prevent the situation from spiralling into a broader regional crisis.

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