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Iran Seeks Guarantees for Gulf Security, Strait of Hormuz Tensions
Iran's UN envoy stated that guarantees against further attacks are needed for stability in the Gulf region. The UN Security Council discussed the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, with multiple nations calling for its reopening. Discussions between the U.S. and Iran on reopening the strait are ongoing.
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The United Nations Security Council held a session on maritime security in the Gulf, initiated by Bahrain, where dozens of countries condemned Iran's control over the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's ambassador to the UN, Amir Saeid Iravani, stated that lasting stability in the Persian Gulf requires a cessation of aggression against Iran and guarantees against recurrence, along with respect for Iran's sovereign rights.
Iravani told reporters after the session that the United States has targeted commercial vessels and seized ships, but this was not addressed in the meeting.
Guterres addressed the Security Council, urging the opening of the Strait of Hormuz without tolls or discrimination to resume trade and avert a global food emergency affecting millions in Africa and South Asia. Guterres noted that the disruption is the worst supply chain issue since COVID-19 and the war in Ukraine, leading to empty fuel tanks, shelves, and plates.
International Maritime Organization chief Arsenio Dominguez reported to the council that 20,000 seafarers remain trapped in the Gulf. U.S. and Iran remain stalled.
U.S. sanctions under Operation Economic Fury. U.S. has extended sanctions to include an oil refinery in China and 19 shipping companies involved in transporting Iranian oil. U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen described a reported plan to vet Green Card applicants for views critical of Israel as outrageous, stating it denies residency based on speech. U.S. to stop military funding to Israel.
Regional Updates Russian President Vladimir Putin Met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in St. Petersburg and praised Iran's people for remaining independent. Israeli army chief Eyal Zamir stated that Israel needs more soldiers, as 2026 is likely to be another year of fighting on multiple fronts.
Israeli attacks killed four people in southern Lebanon, with Lebanon's Health Ministry reporting a total death toll of 2,521 since March 2. Hezbollah stated that its fighters launched three attacks on Israeli forces inside Lebanese territory, including targeting a military bulldozer in Bint Jbeil.
