Trump officials want to refocus future US-Iran negotiations on nuclear program – report | LIVE BLOG
Gulf diplomats and Iranian officials were set to meet Monday to discuss an Omani plan for reopening the Strait of Hormuz to regular tanker traffic
A meeting between Iran and Gulf Cooperation Council countries in Salalah, expected to address a proposed Iran-Oman maritime shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz, has been postponed. Oman’s foreign minister said the decision was made to foster consensus, adding that Muscat remains committed to regional dialogue, stability and lasting cooperation. This comes as the US continues to deal with weapons shortages. Boaz Levy, Chairman of the Board of Israel Aerospace Industries, warned that the war, ongoing for nearly three years, presents Israel with a continuous challenge in the form of a need for more interceptor missiles. However, US Central Command Admiral Brad Cooper tells US forces are well-armed and ready for any contingency, dismissing concerns over ammunition shortages or future threats.
Meanwhile, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said the IDF is preparing to take operational control of the Ali Taher Ridge in southern Lebanon to prevent Hezbollah or other groups from reestablishing a presence there. Katz described the ridge as part of Israel’s “security zone” and warned that anyone approaching it would be targeted. He added that Israeli forces would not withdraw or redeploy until Hezbollah is disarmed across Lebanon. READ MORE FROM SUNDAY