Iranian state media announced the deployment of the solid-fueled Qassem Basir missile, which officials described as marking a strategic shift toward preemptive action against perceived threats, though it remains unverified whether this specific system was involved in recent incidents.

This announcement follows a U.S. statement that it intercepted Iranian ballistic missiles launched at its warships and retaliated by striking three Iranian oil tankers, an exchange experts identified as a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict.

Burnham and Trump hold new talks over Ukraine - Prime Minister Andy Burnham and US President Donald Trump agreed on the need to continue working towards a ceasefire in Ukraine during a telephone call on Monday afternoon. - The discussion followed recent US-led peace negotiations in Kyiv and Moscow aimed at ending the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

- Mr Burnham reiterated the UK's commitment to Middle East security, emphasising a Two-State Solution, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. - The Prime Minister also congratulated Mr Trump on US employment statistics and discussed positive growth signs within the UK economy.

- The call comes amidst ongoing support for Ukraine following a foiled Russian drone attack at Leipzig airport, a critical logistics hub for Kyiv.

The United States has reportedly shifted from diplomatic negotiations with Iran to a strategy of intensified economic sanctions and military action, including a reported maritime blockade, following President Trump’s rejection of a previous ceasefire agreement.

In response, Iranian officials have warned of potential military escalation and expanded hostilities, while the country’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has remained publicly absent since the reported death of his predecessor in February.

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council indicated plans to establish a new managed shipping corridor in Iranian and Omani waters, contingent on the cessation of perceived US actions. Following reports that a Saudi Aramco facility was targeted, Brent crude futures rose above $97 per barrel, while Iranian officials have threatened further measures against US energy interests.