【Iran Crisis】Two oil tankers in the Persian Gulf catch fire and explode, causing a sharp rise in Brent crude oil, once again approaching the 100 mark. Iranian officials hint at the possibility of blocking the Red Sea entrance on the other side (updating continuously).

According to reports from overseas news agencies such as Faytuks Network, there was a fire and explosion on an oil tanker in the Persian Gulf. Iraqi port officials stated that two foreign oil tankers were attacked within the past hour, and 25 crew members evacuated. Reports indicate that the two oil tankers on fire near the Iraqi coast are the Malta-flagged ZEFYROS and the Marshall Islands-flagged SAFESEA VISHNU.

Brent crude surged 6%, trading at $97.64.

EXCLUSIVE: The 2 Tankers that are on fire off the coast of Iraq are the Malta flagged ZEFYROS and the Marshall Islands flagged SAFESEA VISHNU pic.twitter.com/rpWfoHw20C

— Stellar Man (@stellarman22) March 11, 2026

▼Click image to enlarge

According to Al Jazeera, an unnamed senior Iranian military/security official warned that if the US makes a strategic mistake, another strait could face a situation similar to the Strait of Hormuz. This statement is widely interpreted as referring to the Mandeb Strait at the southern entrance to the Red Sea, another critical route for oil transportation.

The official also added in an interview that the Middle East “may soon enter a regional war,” emphasizing that Iran “still has many cards to play.”

When asked by reporters, Trump responded, “They have lost their navy, lost their air force, have no air defense systems, no radar. Their leaders are gone. And we can do worse to each other. We left some things behind, or we can take them away this afternoon, in fact within an hour, and they will never be able to rebuild that country.”

Trump said he believes oil companies should use the Strait of Hormuz. “We almost destroyed all their mine-sweeping ships in one night. We’ve hit about 60 ships—I didn’t realize they had such a large navy. I’d say it’s big but ineffective. But almost all of their navy, nearly every ship, has sunk to the bottom of the sea.”

He continued, claiming Iran has not laid mines in the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump also stated that Spain has not cooperated at all and is considered very poor in this regard. He suggested they might cut off trade with Spain.

$1 or less indicates Wednesday’s news====

Iran plans to lay thousands of mines in the Strait of Hormuz. Trump: They will face unprecedented military consequences

The Strait of Hormuz remains a global focus. CBS, citing US intelligence sources, reports that Iran may be preparing to deploy mines in the strait, possibly using small boats capable of carrying two to three mines. Iran’s current stockpile of mines is estimated to be between 2,000 and 6,000.

CNN reports, citing two US intelligence officials, that Iran has begun deploying naval mines in the Strait of Hormuz. Currently, only dozens of mines have been deployed, but Iran still has 80-90% of its small boats and minelaying vessels available.

Trump then posted on Truth Social: “If Iran has indeed laid mines in the Strait of Hormuz, and we have no reports of this, we demand they be immediately cleared! If mines have been laid for any reason and are not removed immediately, Iran will face unprecedented military consequences. Conversely, if they remove any mines they may have placed, that would be a big step in the right direction! Additionally, we are using the same technology and missile capabilities—originally used to combat drug traffickers—to permanently eliminate any ships or vessels attempting to lay mines in the Strait of Hormuz. They will be dealt with swiftly and forcefully. Warning!”

Trump added, “In the past few hours, we have hit and completely destroyed 10 inactive minelaying ships or vessels, and more will follow!”

U.S. Energy Secretary makes false claim

U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright mistakenly claimed on social media that the U.S. Navy escorted a tanker through the Strait of Hormuz. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt clarified to reporters: “The U.S. Navy is not currently escorting any tankers or ships.”

“I’ve seen the post, and I haven’t had a chance to speak directly with the Secretary about it,” Leavitt said. “However, I know the post was quickly deleted.”

Wright previously posted: “The U.S. Navy successfully escorted a tanker through the Strait of Hormuz to ensure the continuous global supply of oil.”

The International Energy Agency (IEA) will hold a special meeting on Tuesday to discuss the possible release of emergency reserves. The organization’s over 30 member countries, mainly developed economies in Europe, North America, and Northeast Asia, collectively hold 1.2 billion barrels of oil reserves.

Hegseth: The most intense day of strikes

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said, “Today will again be the most intense day of strikes inside Iran.” He pointed out that in the past 24 hours, Iran launched the lowest number of missiles they have ever launched, and condemned Iran for unprovoked attacks on neighboring Gulf countries, some of which were once allies.

He said the goals include destroying Iran’s missile stockpiles and manufacturing capabilities; “destroying their navy”; and “permanently depriving Iran of the ability to possess nuclear weapons.”

Russia does not share intelligence with Iran

U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff said that Russian leaders denied sharing intelligence with Iran during a call with Trump on Monday.

$1 or less indicates Tuesday’s news====

Oil tankers hesitate before passing through the Strait of Hormuz; no ships have crossed. Trump at press conference: Iran’s war will end soon but no promise on timing

Oil prices previously plunged nearly 10%, with Brent crude dropping 9% to $90.3, and NYMEX crude falling 8% to $87. According to shipping sources, dozens of oil tankers near the Strait of Hormuz appeared to attempt to pass through, led by a Gambia-flagged tanker FAREEDA 5, which reached near the strait but ultimately retreated back into the sea before passing through. As of 1 p.m., no ships had crossed.

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According to semi-official Iranian media Fars News Agency, a senior Iranian military officer warned, “Until further notice, we will not allow a single liter of oil to be exported to hostile parties and their allies in the region.”

CNBC reports that the Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson also warned that oil tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz “must be very cautious,” stating, “As long as the situation remains unsafe, I believe all oil tankers and all maritime navigation must remain highly vigilant.” He added that targeting US military bases and assets in the region is “legal” under international law, based on UN Charter Article 51.

🔴 یکی از مقامات ارشد نظامی ایرانی به المیادین گفت: تا اطلاع ثانوی اجازه نمی‌دهیم یک لیتر نفت در منطقه به طرف متخاصم و شرکای آن صادر شود.

— خبرگزاری فارس (@FarsNews_Agency) March 9, 2026

U.S. military transport aircraft appeared earlier today.

Trump stated that U.S. forces have deployed strong military and mine-clearing assets in the Strait of Hormuz, and will provide “political risk insurance” and personally escort commercial ships if necessary. He emphasized that Iran will not be allowed to cut off global oil supplies.

Trump held a press conference, refusing to promise an end to the war “within days or this week,” but stressing it will be “very quick.” He said that because Iran’s military assets (navy, air force, radar, leadership, etc.) have been almost entirely destroyed, the operation will not take long. He noted that the current military progress is unprecedented; what was originally expected to take a month has already been achieved ahead of schedule.

He claimed that the U.S. has severely damaged Iran’s military power, sinking 51 navy vessels, destroying drone manufacturing facilities, and reducing Iran’s missile capability to below 10%. Over 5,000 targets have been struck, including major strategic ones. Iran’s top leadership has been targeted two or three times. Deep underground nuclear facilities Iran attempted to rebuild in secret have been destroyed, preventing them from acquiring nuclear weapons.

He said that Iran’s power grid and critical infrastructure remain intact as leverage; if Iran retaliates, it will face devastating consequences. He stated that the most dangerous phase of the war was over within three days.

He expressed hope that Iran will nominate a new leadership willing to pursue peace. He is disappointed that Iran’s Supreme Leader is the son of Khamenei.

He said protecting the strait’s open passage is mainly to stabilize the global economy, and specifically to help countries like China that rely on this route. “I want to keep it open. I want to keep it good. You know, it doesn’t affect us as much as it does China. We’re actually helping China and other countries because they get a lot of their energy from the strait. But we have a very good relationship with China. I’m honored to do this.”

Summary of the press conference:

“Over the past weekend, the U.S. military and Israeli Defense Forces continued to execute Operation Epic Fury with unprecedented success. Over the past nine days, we launched the most powerful and complex military strikes and tactical exercises in history. If you add these actions to our other achievements—such as Operation Midnight Hammer, which eliminated Iran’s nuclear threat, and successes in Venezuela and elsewhere—we have achieved great victories everywhere.”

“At the same time, we have made significant progress in achieving our military objectives. Some might say these goals are already quite close to completion. We have thoroughly and completely eliminated every armed force inside Iran. Most of Iran’s navy has been sunk, lying at the bottom of the sea. Just received reports: a total of 51 ships. I didn’t even realize they had so many ships, but they didn’t last long. These are combat vessels, meant for fighting, but they are no match for us.”

“We continue to target Iran’s drone and missile capabilities. Their drone numbers have been greatly reduced. Their drone manufacturing plants are under full attack from today. We have seized all their drone production sites and are destroying them one by one. Their missile capability has dropped to about 10%, maybe less. We are also precisely striking their missile manufacturing and transportation facilities. So far, we have hit over 5,000 targets, including very strategic ones. But we are holding back some of the most important targets for future use. If we strike those, they will need many years to rebuild, involving the country’s power generation and many other critical infrastructures. So unless absolutely necessary, we do not intend to go that far. These targets are easy to hit, but once struck, the consequences would be catastrophic. We are watching what happens before deciding whether to strike them. We could destroy all of them in a day.”

“But all these actions have already caused about 90% of the overall capacity in various sectors to decline, especially Iran’s missile launchers. As you know, drone launchers have decreased by over 83%. Drone launchers are almost destroyed, and Iran’s missile launchers have declined by over 90%. These are highly sophisticated, hard-to-replicate equipment. Usually, with our advanced gear and top-tier personnel, we can accurately and swiftly destroy a launcher within five minutes or less after it fires a missile.”

“So now, we have low-cost interception systems that effectively counter Iran’s drones; our B-2 bombers recently dropped dozens of 2,000-pound penetrating bombs across Iran to destroy missile launchers, often penetrating underground soil that cannot withstand such penetrations. We are also destroying their industrial bases for manufacturing drones and missiles at an unprecedented speed. We know their locations precisely and are eliminating them rapidly. Our progress has far exceeded initial timelines; I dare say we probably never imagined we’d be this far in just a month.”

“Additionally, we have eliminated their top leadership two or three times. As you know, we had to intervene. We don’t want a future president (if it’s someone else) to hesitate to take the decisive actions I have taken, which could lead us back into the same quagmire in five or ten years. So, they should nominate a new president or national leader capable of pursuing real change peacefully. For 47 years, they have been killing. Forty-seven years! Whether it’s military explosions or the USS Cole attack, they have been deeply involved, despite denying it. They have been part of all these tragedies caused by roadside bombs. Those who died, and now those who have lost legs, arms, or have severe facial injuries—this Iranian regime has been attacking Americans and spreading terrorism worldwide for 47 years.”

“Despite numerous opportunities to abandon nuclear ambitions—recently, they still cling to this goal, even telling officials like Witkoff that they want to continue building nuclear weapons. If we hadn’t launched Midnight Hammer and destroyed their nuclear capacity, they would have had nuclear weapons long ago and would have used them. At least Israel would be facing annihilation. We are very fortunate to have the courage to act, with talented pilots and excellent equipment—B-2 bombers are incredible. (By the way, we’ve ordered 25 upgraded, better versions.) We have the greatest military in the world, far ahead of others. Wherever we go, you can see it. But you still need the best personnel to operate and use it, and those are the talents we cherish.”

“Even after thoroughly destroying their key nuclear facilities, during Operation Midnight Hammer, they never genuinely negotiated. They still insist on making nuclear weapons, refusing to enrich uranium to unacceptable levels. They even rejected a generous civilian proposal to provide unlimited free nuclear fuel. We offered to supply free nuclear fuel, but they weren’t interested—they only want to make nuclear weapons.”

“So, that regime is trying to secretly rebuild its weapons program elsewhere. They can’t go back to the three sites we destroyed, so they are working at another location, in a different concealed terrain, protected by hard granite. They want protection, and granite is indeed strong, but they aim to go deeper underground. They have started this process while rapidly developing conventional ballistic missiles. They plan to advance both projects simultaneously, which directly threatens our overseas bases and could soon impact the U.S. homeland. Their evil intent is to use this exponential growth of ballistic missile threats to make it nearly impossible for the world to prevent their eventual nuclear acquisition.”

“So, as you can see, they once had an astonishing number of missiles, most of which are now expended or destroyed, and their use has been very unsuccessful because we can intercept most of them. The defense technology is incredible. Patriot missiles, THAAD systems, and advanced naval destroyers have intercepted hundreds of missiles targeting us and our allies.”

“Our laser technology, which is coming online rapidly, is also incredible. We will soon have laser weapons capable of low-cost, precise interception of targets like Patriot missiles and other defense systems.”

“The situation is rapidly approaching an irreversible point, and the U.S. considers this absolutely unacceptable. Based on intelligence—deeply involved—I thought they were about to attack us. I firmly believe that if we hadn’t preempted, they would have intended to attack the U.S. If you notice, they did something extremely foolish—they attacked their neighbors. And their neighbors are basically neutral or at least not involved in the conflict, yet they were attacked without cause. This caused a strong backlash: those neighbors immediately turned to us and began fighting back, and they are very successful. Look at Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and other countries—they are strong and smart, but they were attacked. When I first heard this, I said no, someone must have misread the intelligence. But it wasn’t a mistake. The UAE was hit by over 1,000 missiles but nearly all were shot down.”

“On my first day in 2015, I said, ‘I will prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.’ What I am doing now is fulfilling that promise. Think about it—this was a warning I issued in 2015. It was a threat, then a bigger threat, but now it’s no longer a threat, at least for a long time. We want to keep this peace.”

“As we continue Operation Epic Fury, we are also highly focused on ensuring the smooth flow of global energy and oil. I will never allow a terrorist regime to hold the world hostage and try to cut off global oil supplies. If Iran takes any reckless action, they will face far more devastating strikes than now. I will destroy those critical infrastructure targets I mentioned. We will do it very quickly. They will never recover. If they want to play this dangerous game, they better think twice. In the long run, without Iranian ships, drones, missiles, nuclear threats, or other threats, oil supplies will be much safer. The Strait of Hormuz will remain absolutely secure. We have deployed a large fleet of powerful navy ships there, with the world’s most advanced mine-clearing equipment. Again, most of their ships are already sunk.”

“But we will strike them so fiercely that they or anyone trying to help them will never regain influence in that region, as long as they dare to act recklessly. Over recent years, this regime and its terrorist proxies have indiscriminately attacked hundreds of commercial ships. We are ending this threat thoroughly. The ultimate result will be a significant reduction in oil and natural gas prices for American families. We have already achieved this, bringing prices down very low. This is a necessary military action to address a problem that must be solved. We are very close to fully accomplishing this goal.”

“Meanwhile, during this brief interruption, the U.S. will provide political risk insurance to any oil tanker operating in the Persian Gulf. We are offering solid risk coverage, and perhaps we will personally escort them through the strait if needed. I don’t think it will be necessary, but if it is, we will escort them safely. We have the world’s most powerful mine-clearing capabilities, the largest invincible fleet, and know exactly where their minefields are. We will clear them very quickly. We want to avoid this situation, but if they do this, if they play that sneaky game, we will strike them with unprecedented severity. We are winning this victory decisively. Our progress is far ahead of schedule. Our military is the greatest in the world, equipped with the best gear and top talent, unmatched by anyone.”

“Iran was once a very powerful, threatening country. They planned to take over the Middle East entirely. If we hadn’t preempted, they would have taken over the Middle East. Since their last strike, they have hoarded thousands of missiles and other deadly weapons. Most have now been destroyed. But they intended to dominate the Middle East. These weapons were aimed at innocent Middle Eastern countries unrelated to this conflict—they wanted to take over the Middle East and destroy Israel. We stopped all this madness in time. We are very proud to be part of it, and it will end very soon. If they restart the conflict, they will face even harsher retaliation.”

“All of this affects other countries far more than the U.S. It doesn’t really impact us. We have such abundant oil resources, with huge reserves of oil and natural gas far exceeding our domestic needs. We now have Venezuela as a new strategic partner. They are doing very well, and we are working closely with their government and president. It’s a major source of oil, natural gas, and other key resources. But we are in a very strong position, which is very unfair to other parts of the world, like China. I mean, we are actually bearing this responsibility for the rest of the world, including China. Much of their energy depends on this route. So we are doing this great thing. We have a very good relationship with President Xi Jinping. I will visit there soon. We are protecting the entire world from these evil schemes. And I am proud to say we are doing very well.”

“We are also actively easing some oil-related sanctions to help lower prices. We have imposed sanctions on some countries, but we will lift these sanctions once the market stabilizes. Who knows, maybe we won’t need sanctions anymore, and long-term prosperity and peace will follow.”

“But when that moment comes, the U.S. Navy and its allies will escort oil tankers safely through the strait if necessary. I hope it won’t be necessary. But if it is, we will escort them directly. We have the best mine-clearing capabilities, the most advanced ships and equipment. We know exactly where their minefields are, and we will clear them quickly. We hope this won’t happen, but if they do this, if they play that game, we will strike them at an unprecedented level.”

“So we are winning decisively. Our progress is far ahead. Our military is the greatest in the world, with the best equipment and top talent. No one has seen anything like this. Iran was once a very powerful country. They tried to take over the Middle East. If we hadn’t struck them, they would have done so long ago. They hoarded thousands of missiles and weapons since their last strike. Most are now destroyed. But they still try to take over the Middle East. These weapons are aimed at countries unrelated to this matter—they want to take over the Middle East and destroy Israel. We stopped all this, controlling the pace perfectly. We are very proud to be part of it, and it will end very soon. If they restart, they will face even harsher strikes.”

$1 or less indicates Monday’s news====

Iran: If they can tolerate oil prices above $200, they will “continue this game” G7 has no consensus on releasing strategic reserves, oil surged 30% to nearly $120

The Strait of Hormuz remains nearly blocked, with Gulf countries planning to cut production. International oil prices soared nearly 30%, approaching $120 per barrel. After reports that the G7 would discuss jointly releasing strategic reserves, the price gains narrowed.

France’s finance minister said that the consensus is to use all necessary tools to stabilize the market if needed, including releasing reserves.

Oil prices spiked, causing turbulence in global markets. The Japanese and Korean markets triggered circuit breakers. U.S. stock futures fell more than 1,000 points on Monday; the Dow opened down over 600 points, the Nasdaq dropped 1.2%, and the S&P 500 fell 80 points. The dollar index was at 99.185.

The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz led to rapid filling of oil storage facilities, with Kuwait and the UAE beginning to cut production. Reports indicate that two Saudi Aramco oil fields have started reducing output, though the extent is not specified; some sources say Aramco is merely reallocating exports.

Additionally, French President Macron, speaking at Paphos Air Force Base in Cyprus, announced that France plans to establish a “purely defensive” mission with European and non-European countries to escort cargo ships and oil tankers, aiming to gradually reopen the Strait of Hormuz after the most intense phase of conflict.

Iran: If they can tolerate oil prices above $200, they will “continue this game” — oil may stay in triple digits for a period

Iran’s Hatam Anbia Central Command spokesperson issued a video statement warning the US and Israel to cease “inhuman actions.” The spokesperson told the US and Israel that if they can endure oil prices exceeding $200 per barrel, “then continue this game.”

Iranian Parliament Speaker Qalibaf said that if the current conflict further expands to infrastructure, its economic impact will last longer regionally and globally. He stated that under such circumstances, international oil prices could remain in the triple digits for some time.

The Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued a statement claiming to have carried out the 31st wave of “True Commitment 4” strikes, using heavy missiles against US and Israeli targets. The IRGC also said that early morning drone and cruise missile attacks “destroyed” a US helicopter base inside Kuwait, including fuel tanks, helicopter pads, and other logistics and support facilities.

Trump posted on Truth Social: “Short-term oil prices will drop rapidly once Iran’s nuclear threat is eliminated, which is a very small price for America and the world’s security and peace. Only fools would think otherwise.”

Hojjat al-Islam Mojtaba Khamenei appointed as Iran’s new Supreme Leader

Iranian state media reported that the Assembly of Experts has selected Mojtaba Khamenei, son of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as the country’s new Supreme Leader.

The IRGC issued a statement welcoming Mojtaba Khamenei’s appointment. The statement described him as a “comprehensive jurist, a young thinker, and highly knowledgeable on political and social issues,” expressing respect, loyalty, and obedience. It said members are “ready to fully obey and sacrifice themselves in carrying out the sacred command of the Guardian Jurist.”

$1 or less indicates Monday’s news====

Iran: Will choose new leader within 24 hours; UK plans to send two aircraft carriers, Trump: Those who don’t need to wait for victory to fight

Trump, speaking on Air Force One, said, “Unconditional surrender means they surrender, or when they can no longer fight and no one around them can surrender, that might happen because we have already eliminated their leadership many times.” Regarding the lack of ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, Trump said, “That’s their choice. But we’ve cleared it out; we’ve destroyed their navy. Their navy is now sunk at the bottom of the sea.”

He continued, “We expect oil prices to rise, and that’s expected. They will also fall. They will fall very quickly.” Trump said he would use strategic reserves when appropriate.

Regarding ground forces, Trump said they must have very strong reasons. “If we really do that, they will face devastating strikes so severe they cannot fight on the ground.” He also said he does not want the Kurds involved, not wanting the war to become more complicated, “I told them very clearly, I don’t want them to go in.”

Trump said, “We have removed one leadership layer, then the second, and now they are at the third or fourth layer, with leaders no one even knows.”

According to expert member Ayatollah Mozafari of the Iranian Assembly of Experts, Iran plans to hold a meeting within 24 hours to elect a new Supreme Leader. IRGC spokesperson told state TV that Iran is “completely prepared to continue intense, comprehensive war for at least six months at the current pace.”

Additionally, Iran’s president said he has instructed the military not to attack any countries that have not attacked Iran, despite attacks on the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and others.

Dubai Media Office issued a statement saying that Dubai International Airport has temporarily suspended all operations for security reasons.

The UAE president issued a rare warning to the country’s “enemies,” saying not to mistake the UAE’s prosperity for weakness. He visited a hospital where injured civilians from Iran attacks are being treated, stating, “The UAE is tough and not an easy target,” and met with those injured in the Iran strikes.

Several European officials revealed that Saudi Arabia has increased direct contacts with Iran, trying to curb Middle East war, which has caused serious turmoil and pressure on global markets.

On the oil production front, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) said it is “managing” offshore oil output levels to meet storage demands. The company continues to utilize export routes bypassing the Strait of Hormuz and its international storage facilities to ensure supply reaches global customers.

Trump posted on Truth Social: “The UK, our once-great ally, perhaps the greatest, is finally seriously considering sending two aircraft carriers to the Middle East. No problem, Prime Minister Sunak, we no longer need them—but we will remember. We don’t need those who only come after we’ve won the war!”

Trump also claimed that Iran, which is suffering heavy blows, has apologized to neighboring Middle Eastern countries and surrendered, promising not to fire on them again. This promise was made solely because of relentless US and Israeli attacks. They once dreamed of taking over and ruling the entire Middle East. This is Iran’s first defeat by neighboring Middle Eastern countries in thousands of years. They said, “Thank you, President Trump.” I replied, “You’re welcome!” Iran is no longer “the bully of the Middle East”; instead, they are “the losers of the Middle East,” and will remain so for decades until they surrender or, more likely, collapse completely! Today, Iran will face a heavy blow! Due to Iran’s malicious actions, some areas and populations that have not yet been targeted are being seriously considered for total destruction and inevitable death.

$1 or less indicates Saturday’s news====

U.S. provides $20 billion reinsurance for oil tankers; Trump: Weapons production accelerated threefold

After Trump announced the guarantee for insurance on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), led by CEO Ben Black and Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen, announced that the reinsurance mechanism would provide up to approximately $20 billion in loss coverage, covering oil tankers and other maritime traffic, to promote safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

Due to Iran’s war causing a halt in Persian Gulf tanker traffic, U.S. crude oil prices surged over 13%, breaking above $91 per barrel. Some Gulf countries, unable to export oil via the strait, have begun reducing production.

Ben Black stated: “We are confident this reinsurance plan will enable oil, gasoline, liquefied natural gas (LNG), jet fuel, and fertilizers to pass smoothly through the Strait of Hormuz and flow back into the global market.”

Source: https://www.dfc.gov/media/press-releases/dfc-announces-20b-plan-maritime-reinsurance-gulf

Meanwhile, Qatar is loading liquefied natural gas (LNG).

Trump posted on Truth Social: “Had a very successful meeting with America’s largest defense manufacturing companies, discussing capacity and production schedules. They agreed to increase the output of the ‘Exquisite Class’ weapons by four times, as we want to reach maximum production levels as soon as possible.”

“The expansion efforts began three months ago, and many of these weapons’ factories are now under construction and production. We have nearly unlimited supplies of medium and upper-tier munitions, such as those used against Iran and recently in Venezuela. Still, we have increased orders for these types of weapons.”

Representatives from companies including BAE Systems, Boeing, Honeywell Aerospace, L3Harris Missile Solutions, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and Raytheon attended the meeting. A follow-up meeting is scheduled in two months. All states are currently bidding for the setup of these new factories.

Additionally, Yellen indicated that the U.S. might lift further sanctions on Russian oil supplies, “The Treasury Department has agreed to allow our allies, India, to start purchasing Russian crude oil already at sea, to help alleviate the temporary global oil shortage. We are permitting them to receive this Russian oil. We may lift sanctions on other Russian oil.”

$1 or less indicates Friday’s news====

U.S. meets with Trump at White House; U.S. war department: B-2 bombers dropped dozens of 2,000-pound penetrating bombs, LOCUS drones indispensable

U.S. bombing Iran enters its seventh day. Trump met with Miami International FC champions, led by the U.S. military, and said, “Messi (cheering crowd) is… my son asked, Dad, do you know who’s coming today? I said, I don’t know, I have a lot to do. He said, Messi. I said, really? Is he your biggest fan?” “You might say I’m old, but I’ve seen Billy play, he’s with the Cosmos. You might be better than Billy. Billy’s pretty good. Who’s better? Him or Billy? (pointing at Messi, crowd laughs) Messi! I agree. But… Billy’s also pretty good.”

Regarding Iran, Trump said, “I again call on all members of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, military, and police to lay down their weapons. Accept immunity, and we will give you immunity. Otherwise, you face absolute guaranteed death. And I don’t want to see that.”

“He also urged Iranian diplomats worldwide to seek asylum and help us shape a new, better Iran. It’s a country with great potential, with us.”

“Iran’s missiles are targeting these countries: Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and many others. Those who are not really involved are being targeted. They targeted those places long before everything started. They are aiming at the entire Middle East. Then we came. We destroyed their party.”

The Middle East conflict expansion and supply disruptions have raised concerns about global supply. U.S. benchmark crude (WTI) rose above $80 per barrel for the first time in over a year. U.S. Secretary of the Interior, Bernhardt, said the Trump administration is considering a range of options to address soaring oil and gasoline prices during the Iran war, “All options are under consideration.” So far, the U.S. has not taken measures to activate strategic petroleum reserves.

U.S. Secretary of Defense Hegseth said, “We are not short of ammunition. Our stockpiles of defensive and offensive weapons allow us to sustain this campaign as needed. Ammunition levels will only increase with advantage,” “The operational forces capable of projecting over Iran, combined with Israel’s defense capabilities, are now several times greater.”

Cooper, the general leading Operation Epic Fury, said over 50,000 troops are currently executing the mission. In the past hour, B-2 bombers dropped dozens of 2,000-pound penetrating bombs targeting buried ballistic missile launchers. They also struck an organization equivalent to space command in Iran, weakening their ability to threaten Americans.

He said that compared to day one, Iran’s ballistic missile attacks have decreased by 90%, drone attacks by 83%. About 30 ships have been sunk or destroyed. In recent hours, they hit an Iranian drone carrier about the size of a WWII aircraft carrier, which is now on fire. The next phase is to systematically dismantle Iran’s future missile production capacity.

He responded to questions, saying they are adjusting Ukraine deployments to counter Iran’s drones.

He also said that reports of Iran’s F-15 being shot down are false, and Iran claims 500 Americans have been killed—these are lies.

Using $10,000 worth of weapons to shoot down $10,000 worth of drones.

Regarding LOCUS drones, he said new capabilities have been deployed for interception. Over time, the cost curve of drones has been somewhat reversed. Looking back a few years, the U.S. used to spend $2 million on a missile to shoot down a $50,000 drone. Now, it takes a lot of time and $10,000 weapons to shoot down $100,000 drones.

But LOCUS drones are indispensable. They are originally designed by Iran. The U.S. captured one, disassembled its parts, sent it back to America, labeled it “Made in USA,” and is now using it against Iran.

$1 or less indicates Thursday’s news====

White House: Will fully control Iran’s airspace in the coming hours; Spain has agreed to cooperate with U.S. forces

Sixth day of U.S. bombing Iran. White House Press Secretary Leavitt said that so far, over 20 Iranian vessels have been destroyed, including the first use of torpedoes since World War II last night, destroying Iran’s top submarine. Currently, no Iranian vessels are operating in the Arabian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, or Oman Gulf.

Leavitt stated that the U.S. has targeted over 2,000 objectives, destroying hundreds of ballistic missiles, launchers, and drones. In the next few hours, Iran’s airspace will be fully and thoroughly under control.

Leavitt responded to who is giving orders in Iran, saying intelligence agencies are closely monitoring and paying attention to this.

Spain, which initially refused to allow U.S. military use of bases, agreed to cooperate after pressure from Trump.

Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, Leavitt said that when appropriate, the U.S. Navy will begin escorting oil tankers through the strait.

On increasing ammunition stocks, Leavitt said she has not heard the president consider this.

$1 or less indicates March 4th news====

Hojjat al-Islam Mojtaba Khamenei reportedly elected as new Supreme Leader; IRGC: Block Strait of Hormuz

On Tuesday (March 3), senior clerics convened a meeting to select Iran’s next Supreme Leader. Iranian media cited sources saying Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the late leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is likely to be elected as the new Supreme Leader. The 56-year-old Mojtaba is the second son of Khamenei and currently heads Iran’s Basij militia.

As the Iran war enters its fifth day, it has become a contest over the Strait of Hormuz between the U.S. and Iran. Trump posted on Truth Social: “Effective immediately, I have ordered the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) to provide very reasonable prices for financial security of all maritime trade (especially energy) passing through the Gulf region, offering political risk insurance and guarantees. This service will be available to all shipping companies.”

“If necessary, the U.S. Navy will begin escorting oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz as soon as possible. In any case, the U.S. will ensure the free flow of energy exports worldwide. America’s economic and military strength is the strongest on Earth—more actions are coming.”

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps issued a statement: “The IRGC Navy has sent a message to the global shipping network, clearly stating that the Strait of Hormuz is now in a state of war from start to finish, and ships may face any damage risks from missiles or uncontrolled drones; therefore, ships should not pass through the area.”

“Given the multiple warnings issued by the IRGC Navy that the Strait of Hormuz is unsafe, more than 10 ships ignoring these warnings have been hit by projectiles and caught fire.”

“As is evident, Iran has always pursued a policy of de-escalation, striving to create safety and stability in the Persian Gulf, region, and globally. However, the foolish actions of Trump and Netanyahu have triggered this war, causing regional turmoil and disrupting the global economic order.”

“Currently, the entire Strait of Hormuz is under the control of the Islamic Republic Navy.”

“It is worth noting that this important and strategic action by Iran has caused a sharp rise in global oil prices, impacting economies worldwide—especially the U.S. and EU member states. Energy experts say if this continues for three weeks, the global economy will face a serious crisis.”

$1 or less indicates Tuesday’s news====

Trump: Four main goals in striking Iran; U.S. Defense: Tens of thousands of missiles fired in two days, including from U.S. launched penetrating bombs

U.S. President Trump and the Department of Defense held two press conferences overnight. Trump pointed out that after the recent destruction of Iran’s nuclear program through “Operation Midnight Hammer,” he warned Iran not to attempt to rebuild at different locations, but they ignored those warnings and refused to stop pursuing nuclear weapons. Moreover, Iran’s