U.S. officials report that Israel established a covert base in western Iraq to conduct strikes against Iran and carried out airstrikes against Iraqi forces that threatened to discover the site early in the conflict.
Ebrahim Azizi, head of the Parliament's National Security and Foreign Policy Commission, described Bahrain as a "microscopic country" aligning with the U.S. and warned of serious consequences, including potential Strait of Hormuz implications. Bahrain's Interior Ministry subsequently announced the arrest of 41 individuals charged with ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Fox News reported that if U.S. negotiations with Iran fail, the United States will likely target Tehran’s military capabilities, including ballistic missiles, air defense systems, and nuclear-related facilities, according to retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. David Deptula. White House spokesperson Olivia Wells stated that President Trump keeps all options open to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
CNN reported that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has increased its influence in Iran's power structure, while hardline factions have stepped up their opposition to a potential agreement with the United States. The report includes an interview with journalist and political analyst Jamshid Barzgar.
Ali Safri, advisor to the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic, stated that the priority is to stop the war, reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and prevent "piracy" by the United States. Safri added that Iran has responded to U.S. provocative actions in the Strait of Hormuz and is reviewing Washington's response to Iran's proposal.
WSJ: U.S. officials say Israel established a covert base in western Iraq to support strikes on Iran, and carried out airstrikes against Iraqi forces that came close to uncovering the site early in the conflict.
