Trump: No talks with Iran, US naval blockade remains in full force

Published Aug 19, 12:16 PM UTC

This news digest covers major developments over the past 24 hours. In the Iran War, President Trump stated there are no talks with Tehran and the U.S. naval blockade remains in full force. Trump reportedly threatened to bomb Oman over its deal with Iran to manage Strait of Hormuz shipping. Iran fired two ballistic missiles toward the strait, triggering UAE air defenses, though Iran denied the claim. Over 80% of vessel transits now use the Omani route, indicating Iran has partially lost control. The Pentagon is assessing troop reductions in the Persian Gulf. Iran has threatened to strike U.S. assets in southeastern Europe and subsea cables if the U.S. escalates. In the Israel-Hamas war, an Israeli airstrike on a Gaza cafe killed seven. In the Russia-Ukraine war, ousted Defense Minister Fedorov called for wartime elections.