Iran Conflict Day 118: IRGC Rejects New Hormuz Route; US Secretary Rubio Meets GCC Leaders
Elizabeth Melimopoulos
Iran's IRGC Navy has warned ships against using an alternate Strait of Hormuz route, while US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with GCC leaders in Bahrain to assure them of Washington's commitment to their security amid nuclear talks with Iran. Tensions remain high in Lebanon despite a ceasefire, with an Israeli airstrike killing two in Nabatieh.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Bahrain to attend a meeting of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), where he is expected to reassure regional allies that Washington will protect their security and economic interests while seeking a peaceful agreement with Iran.
Meanwhile, disagreement persists over the future of Iran's nuclear program. The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) said inspectors would return to Iran's nuclear facilities, but Tehran insists inspections will only resume after a final deal with the US.
Tensions continue to mount in Lebanon despite diplomatic efforts and a ceasefire. Two people were killed in an Israeli airstrike on the southern city of Nabatieh, while Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz declared that Israeli forces would maintain a presence in southern Lebanon even as the US calls for withdrawal.
In Iran:
- Iran warns ships over new Hormuz route: The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy (IRGC) warned vessels not to use a shipping lane dubbed 'unauthorized' through the Strait of Hormuz, claiming the route was created without Tehran's consent. Ships must use Iran-designated corridors or face enforcement measures. Earlier, Oman had announced shipping guidance through the strait in coordination with the UN's International Maritime Organization (IMO).
- Iran accuses NATO of war complicity: Iran's Foreign Ministry accused NATO of complicity in an 'illegal war of aggression' after NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte said European allies supported US and Israeli strikes. Tehran stated that involved NATO members, including Italy and Romania, must be held accountable for their roles.
- More South Korean ships transit Hormuz: Five additional South Korean-operated vessels safely passed through the Strait of Hormuz, signaling further easing of shipping restrictions. South Korea said 13 of its ships remain in the strategic waterway.
In the Gulf:
- Rubio reassures Gulf allies on Iran deal: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio continued his Gulf tour. He visited the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Kuwait on Wednesday before arriving in Bahrain, where he will meet GCC leaders in Manama on Thursday. He affirmed that the US will ensure any agreement with Iran reflects the security and economic concerns of regional allies, pledging not to compromise their interests during negotiations.
In the US:
- ICC judges sue Trump administration over sanctions: Three International Criminal Court (ICC) judges filed a lawsuit against the administration of US President Donald Trump, arguing that US sanctions imposed on them are illegal and aimed at punishing past judicial decisions, including rulings related to Israel and alleged US war crimes in Afghanistan. They said the sanctions have severely restricted their ability to work, travel, and access financial services.
In Lebanon:
- Israeli airstrike kills two in southern Lebanon: Two people were killed in an Israeli airstrike near Nabatieh on Wednesday, while residents of the village of Ain al-Arab were told to leave or face home demolitions. The incidents come as Lebanese and Israeli officials hold talks in Washington DC and discuss pilot areas to pave the way for an Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon and the deployment of the Lebanese army.
