Reports related to demonstrations and public protests
President Donald Trump of the United States has rejected the Islamic Republic of Iran's 14-article proposal, coinciding with the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz, increasing the likelihood of renewed military confrontation between Tehran and Washington.
The Dominican Republic has designated Hezbollah and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as terrorist organizations.
Saeed Siyah-Sarani, Secretary of the Sea Light Path Headquarters, stated that without the Islamic Republic's approval, not a single liter of oil would be permitted to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. He also declared that vessels passing through the strait must obtain permission, communicate in Persian, and cross from designated points.
The US military is contemplating renaming its operations in Iran to "Operation SledgeHammer" should the conflict persist, according to NBC.
In late March 2026, the Saudi Air Force conducted secret strikes on Iranian soil in retaliation for Iranian attacks on Saudi territory, marking the first time Saudi Arabia has directly attacked Iran. This led to a reduction in Iranian strikes on Saudi territory, from over 105 weekly to about 25, and contributed to a quiet deal reached the week before the broader U.S.-Iran ceasefire on April 7th.
Prince Reza Pahlavi, speaking at the annual Politico security summit, called for a coordinated strategy to end the Iranian regime, including a clear message for military and security forces to defect and join the people, only when protesters have equal capacity to confront the regime's repressive forces.
In 2026, CENTCOM recognized thousands of service members in the Middle East with awards, promotions, and new leadership roles.
In 2026, thousands of U.S. service members serving in the Middle East were recognized for exceptional performance through awards, promotions, and new leadership roles.
Satellite imagery indicates that no Iranian oil tanker has loaded crude oil at Kharg Island in the past four days, as of the latest image captured today.
Maersk, a major shipping company, continues to avoid transit through the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic waterway in the Persian Gulf.
USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) continues enforcing the U.S. blockade in the Arabian Sea, redirecting 65 commercial vessels and disabling 4, according to U.S. Central Command.
At today's press conference in Tehran, government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani faced protests from journalists over her statements about the restricted internet access in Iran, which she defended as a temporary measure approved by the Supreme National Security Council due to the country's current state of war.
