Day 71 | Despite renewed attacks, US looks for breakthrough proposal from Iran today
The fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran is facing growing strain after both sides exchanged fire in the Strait of Hormuz.
Tensions deepened further after the United Arab Emirates, a key US ally, announced that its air defenses intercepted 19 Iranian missiles and drones on Monday.
The US will pause escorting commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz barely a day after it began doing so, US President Donald Trump said Tuesday, citing a desire to reach a peace deal with Iran.
Despite an uptick in military activity in recent days, Trump said "great progress has been made" toward a deal with Tehran and that the ship-guiding operation "will be paused for a short period of time to see whether or not the Agreement can be finalized and signed."
The announcement came hours after Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the United States had completed its offensive operations against Iran, while withholding the right to unleash a "devastating" response to any new attacks on shipping in the narrow shipping lanes.
Rubio echoed Washington's top military officer who earlier in the day said that US forces were ready to resume combat operations if ordered.
And Trump added that the blockade of Iranian ports "will remain in full force and effect."
Meanwhile, tensions are also intensifying on another front. In Lebanon, Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem declared that “there is no ceasefire,” as the Iranian-backed group continued exchanging fire with Israeli forces, raising concerns that the conflict could widen beyond the Gulf.
Day 72 of the US-‘Israeli’ war on Iran
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Read more: Day 72 | US awaits Iran’s response to proposal, despite exchange of fire
Iran threatens US sites if its tankers are attacked: Iranian media
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard on Saturday threatened to target US sites in the region and "enemy ships" if its tankers come under fire, Iranian media reported.
"Any attack on Iranian tankers and commercial vessels will result in a heavy attack on one of the American centres in the region and enemy ships," it said, a day after US attacks against two Iranian tankers in the Gulf of Oman.
'Israeli' officer, two soldiers injured in Hezbollah drone explosion in southern Lebanon
An 'Israeli' officer and two soldiers were injured, including one seriously, after a drone launched by Lebanon’s Hezbollah exploded near 'Israeli' forces operating in southern Lebanon, according to the 'Israeli' army.
The military said the seriously wounded soldier was evacuated for treatment, while a reserve officer and another soldier sustained moderate injuries.
Hezbollah announced several operations targeting 'Israeli' troop gatherings, military vehicles and positions in southern Lebanon, and also claimed it intercepted an 'Israeli' drone.
The group said the attacks were carried out in response to what it described as continued 'Israeli' violations of the ceasefire agreement and ongoing strikes on towns in southern Lebanon.
CENTCOM says naval blockade of Iran continues, 58 vessels redirected
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said its naval blockade on Iran is ongoing, claiming that 58 commercial vessels have been redirected and four disabled since April 13 to prevent movement to and from Iranian ports amid escalating tensions over Iran’s nuclear programme.
Lebanon says 'Israeli' strike on south kills seven including girl
Lebanon's health ministry said an 'Israeli' strike on the southern town of Saksakiyeh killed at least seven people, including a girl, in the latest attack during a ceasefire in the 'Israel'-Hezbollah war.
In a statement, the ministry said that "the Israeli enemy raid on the town of Saksakiyeh, in the Sidon district, resulted in an initial toll of seven martyrs, including a girl, and 15 wounded, including three children".
Hezbollah says targeted troops in northern 'Israel' with drone
Hezbollah on Saturday said it targeted northern 'Israel' with a drone in response to repeated 'Israeli' attacks on Lebanon despite an ongoing truce between the two sides.
In a statement, the group said that it "targeted a gathering of 'Israeli' enemy army soldiers near Misgav Am" with a drone in response to "the 'Israeli' enemy’s violation of the ceasefire".
Sirens sound in northern 'Israel' over suspected drone infiltration
'Israel’s' Home Front Command said warning sirens were activated in Arab al-Aramshe, a town near the Lebanon border in northern 'Israel', amid fears of a drone infiltration.
'Israeli' airstrike targets car in Saadiyat south of Beirut
An 'Israeli' airstrike targeted a vehicle in the coastal town of Saadiyat today, located approximately 20 kilometers south of the capital, marking a significant ceasefire violation, brokered by the US.
Three bodies recovered from rubble in Beirut Suburb following 'Israeli' strike
Lebanese Civil defense teams in the southern suburbs of Beirut recovered three bodies from the wreckage of an apartment building in Haret Hreik today, following a targeted 'Israeli' airstrike earlier this week that broke the regional ceasefire and reportedly aimed at a senior Hezbollah commander.
'Israeli' military reports drone breach from Lebanon
'Israeli' military report confirmed that a "suicide" drone launched from Lebanon crossed the border and crashed today without causing injuries, marking the fifth aerial penetration of 'Israeli' airspace since the fragile truce began.
Russia bypasses naval blockade, resupply Iran via Caspian Sea
- US officials report that Russia is shipping drone components to Iran across the Caspian Sea.
- Trade data reveals a significant surge in Russian maritime traffic to Iran, bypassing traditional routes like the Strait of Hormuz.
US officials suggest that Russia has established a strategic maritime corridor across the Caspian Sea to supply Iran with essential military hardware, according to New York Times.
This route is being used to transport drone components, allowing Tehran to bypass the ongoing naval blockade in the Arabian Sea.
Officials state that these shipments are critical in helping Iran rebuild its drone fleet and military infrastructure following recent regional escalations.
Bypassing Hormuz
The New York Times assumed that Russia is now providing Iran with a wide range of goods and commodities that traditionally passed through the Strait of Hormuz.
With Western and 'Israeli' naval forces maintaining a tight grip on southern maritime routes, the land-locked Caspian Sea has emerged as a secure alternative.
This shift ensures that Iran remains supplied with both industrial materials and specialized technology despite the "maximum pressure" exerted by the current naval blockade.
Surge in trade data
Russian trade data analyzed by the New York Times confirms a "noticeable increase" in shipping volume toward Iran over recent months.
Satellite imagery and port records show a steady stream of cargo vessels moving between Russian ports like Astrakhan and Iranian hubs such as Anzali and Amirabad.
Analysts suggest this logistical cooperation is part of a deepening "defense partnership" where Russia provides technological components in exchange for Iranian energy cooperation and regional support.
Bahrain arrests 41 members of IRGC linked cell
- Bahraini Ministry of Interior has uncovered a cell of 41 individuals linked to the IRGC and the "Velayat-el Faqih" ideology.
- The arrests follow investigations into cases of espionage with foreign entities and expressions of support for Iranian aggression against the Kingdom.
The Ministry of Interior in Bahrain announced on Saturday that security forces have dismantled a major organization with direct ties to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). .
According to the ministry statement, the cell was built around the "Velayat-el Faqih" ideology and aimed to undermine national security through organized clandestine activities.
The discovery was the result of extensive security reports and investigations previously conducted by the Public Prosecution into cases of espionage and foreign interference.
Arrests and legal proceedings
Security agencies have already apprehended 41 individuals identified as the primary members of the organization.
The Ministry confirmed that legal measures are being finalized against the detainees as they are referred for prosecution.
Meanwhile, specialized units are continuing search and investigation operations to identify and arrest any additional accomplices involved in the group’s illegal activities or those who have provided support to its radical agenda.
National security as a "Red Line"
The Ministry of Interior reaffirmed that it will take all necessary actions to confront any threats to the Kingdom's stability.
Officials emphasized that the state will continue to monitor and review the activities of any institutions or individuals suspected of sympathetic ties to the IRGC.
The statement concluded by warning that any person proven to be involved in the activities of this or any similar organization will face the full weight of the law, as the security of the nation remains a non-negotiable priority.
Massive oil slick detected near Iran Kharg Island
- Satellite imagery shows a suspected oil spill covering approximately 45 to 71 square kilometers west of Kharg Island.
- Iranian officials have denied the report, labeling it psychological warfare.
- Maritime analysts suggest the slick is the largest since the start of the current conflict 71 days ago.
New imagery from the European Copernicus Sentinel-1, Sentinel-2, and Sentinel-3 satellites captured between May 6 and May 8 reveals a large grey and white slick in the Persian Gulf.
The suspected oil spill is located west of Kharg Island, which serves as the terminal for 90 percent of the oil exports of Iran.
Researchers from the Conflict and Environment Observatory and maritime firm Windward AI have confirmed the visuals are consistent with a significant offshore oil leak.
Escalating environmental impact
The slick was first identified on May 5 and has since expanded, with some estimates suggesting it covers more than 71 square kilometers.
Experts from Data Desk noted that this could be the most severe environmental incident since the US-'Israel' war against Iran began.
Tracking data shows the spill moving southeastward at roughly two kilometers per hour, potentially threatening the exclusive economic zone of Qatar within days and the coastline of the United Arab Emirates shortly thereafter.
Infrastructure under blockade strain
The cause of the leak remains unconfirmed, but analysts point to the deteriorating state of the oil infrastructure in Iran under the current US naval blockade.
While US forces previously destroyed military targets on Kharg Island, current reports suggest the spill could originate from a rupture in aging undersea pipelines or from tankers stranded by the blockade.
Environmental engineers warn that the inability to properly store or export crude oil has pushed the Iranian system into a dangerous state.
Conflicting reports on origin
Tehran has officially rejected the satellite findings, with some officials claiming the images show waste discharged by a European tanker rather than a leak from their facilities.
However, independent monitoring services like Orbital EOS estimate that over 3,000 barrels of oil may have already been released into the sea.
The US military and the United Nations mission for Iran have not yet issued formal statements regarding the origin of the environmental disaster.
'Israeli' military issues evacuation warning for south Lebanon villages
- 'Israeli' military has ordered an immediate evacuation for residents in several southern Lebanese towns.
- 'Israel' cites alleged ceasefire violations by Hezbollah as the reason for the renewed military operations in the region.
'Israeli' military's Arabic-language spokesperson, Avichay Adraee, issued an urgent warning on Saturday to residents of several towns and villages in southern Lebanon.
Civilians in Tayr Debba, Al-Abbasiyeh, Burj Rahhal, Maroub, Barish, Arzun, Jannata (Tyre), Al-Zrariyeh, and Ain Baal were instructed to leave their homes immediately.
'Israeli' military directed residents to move at least 1,000 meters away from their villages into open areas to avoid being caught in the crossfire.
Alleged ceasefire violations
According to the statement posted on X, 'Israel' claims that it is compelling its forces to act "forcefully" due to what it described as "persistent violations" of the current ceasefire agreement by Hezbollah.
#عاجل انذار عاجل الى سكان لبنان المتواجدين في البلدات والقرى التالية: طير دبا, العباسية, برج رحال,معروب, باريش, أرزون, جناتا (صور), الزرارية, عين بعال
— افيخاي ادرعي (@AvichayAdraee) May 9, 2026
في ضوء قيام حزب الله الارهابي بخرق اتفاق وقف اطلاق النار يضطر جيش الدفاع على العمل ضده بقوة. جيش الدفاع لا ينوي المساس… pic.twitter.com/YltW8TlTy4
'Israeli' military claimed that Hezbollah elements continue to operate within these civilian areas, using them to facilitate activities against 'Israeli' forces.
The spokesperson stated that while the military does not intend to harm civilians, anyone present near Hezbollah facilities or combat equipment is exposing their life to danger.
Escalating cross-border friction
The new warnings come amid a sharp increase in hostilities despite a fragile truce mediated by the United States.
In the last 24 hours, Hezbollah reported launching retaliatory drone and missile swarms toward northern 'Israel' following 'Israeli' strikes on southern suburbs.
Meanwhile, Lebanese health authorities reported that 11 people were killed on Friday due to ongoing 'Israeli' aggression in southern districts.
Read more: Hezbollah claims more than two dozen attacks on 'Israeli' forces in southern Lebanon
Fragile humanitarian situation
The displacement orders further strain a humanitarian situation that has already seen over 1.2 million people forced from their homes in Lebanon.
International observers note that these frequent evacuation orders make it nearly impossible for displaced martyrs' families and other civilians to find permanent safety.
As the 'Israeli' military prepares for it claims "precise and targeted" strikes, the Lebanese government continues to call for international guarantees to protect its territorial sovereignty.
'Israel' strikes 85 Hezbollah sites amid ceasefire violations
- 'Israeli' army says it targeted 85 Hezbollah infrastructure sites across Lebanon within 24 hours.
- Hezbollah says it fired rockets at 'Israeli' forces operating south of the forward defense line.
'Israeli' army announced today that its forces targeted more than 85 Hezbollah sites and infrastructure points over the last 24 hours.
'Israeli' military stated that these strikes aimed to dismantle operational capabilities used to target Israeli soldiers and civilians.
The targets included weapons storage facilities, rocket launch pads, and buildings used by Hezbollah operatives for military activities in southern Lebanon.
Targeting the Beqaa Valley
In a significant escalation, 'Israeli' jets bombed an underground site in the Beqaa Valley. 'Israeli' military identified the facility as a production plant for advanced weaponry.
Officials stated the strike was necessary to prevent Hezbollah from replenishing its strategic arsenal during the current period of instability.
Clashes south of defense line
'Israeli' military reported that Hezbollah operatives fired several rockets toward Israeli troops positioned south of the "forward defense line" in southern Lebanon.
While the projectiles fell near the forces, 'Israeli' military confirmed there were no injuries among the soldiers. In response, 'Israeli' forces targeted the specific Hezbollah elements responsible for the attack, stating they were actively engaged in "hostile activities" against the troops.
Ongoing tension despite negotiations
The intensified military activity comes despite ongoing diplomatic efforts to stabilize the regional ceasefire.
'Israeli' army reaffirmed its commitment to neutralizing immediate threats, emphasizing that it will continue to strike any infrastructure that violates existing security understandings.
These strikes follow a week of renewed friction, as both sides accuse each other of breaching the terms of the fragile truce mediated by international partners.
Russia will not support UN resolution regarding Iran
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister confirmed that Moscow will not support a draft resolution proposed by the United States and Bahrain at the UN Security Council.
Injured supreme leader directing Iran’s strategy from the shadows, US intel says
US intelligence agencies have assessed that Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is playing a "crucial role" in directing the country’s wartime strategy and diplomatic negotiations, despite remaining entirely out of the public eye due to significant injuries.
According to a CNN report citing sources familiar with the intelligence, Mojtaba Khamenei has not been visually confirmed by US agencies since taking power. Officials describe a clandestine command structure that avoids all electronic communication to prevent tracking.
Hezbollah claims over two dozen attacks on Israeli forces in southern Lebanon
Hezbollah says it carried out 26 attacks on 'Israeli' forces in southern Lebanon since Thursday afternoon, as 'Israeli' strikes across the region intensified and were reported to have killed more than 30 people.
The group said its operations included a missile strike on a tank near Deir Siryan, shelling against an 'Israeli' advance toward Haddatha, and an attack on soldiers gathered in Labbouneh village, claiming to have inflicted casualties but without giving figures.
The escalation comes amid some of the deadliest airstrikes on southern Lebanon since fighting began on March 2, with 'Israeli' operations reportedly causing more than 2,700 deaths and at least 8,500 injuries in Lebanon.
Trump says US may revive “Project Freedom” maritime operation in Strait of Hormuz
US President Donald Trump said Friday that Washington could resume a short-lived maritime operation known as “Project Freedom,” which was intended to guide ships through the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing tensions in the region.
“I think Project Freedom is good, but I think we have other ways of doing it also. We may go back to Project Freedom if things don’t happen, but it’d be Project Freedom plus, meaning Project Freedom, plus other things,” Trump told reporters as he departed the White House.
Trump says expecting Iran response to latest proposal 'tonight'
US President Donald Trump said Friday that he was expecting Iran's response to Washington's latest proposal on a deal to ending the Middle East war by "tonight."
"I'm getting a letter supposedly tonight, so we'll see how that goes," Trump told reporters outside the White House.
