On the 22nd day of the war, the Middle East continues to witness intense escalation, with explosions and airstrikes reported across multiple regions. While United States and Israel are increasing pressure on Iran, Tehran is retaliating with strong counterattacks. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that the Strait of Hormuz has not been fully closed. Instead, Iran has imposed restrictions only on ships belonging to countries supporting attacks against it. Meanwhile, Donald Trump continues to claim that the US is close to victory and has ruled out sending ground troops publicly, though military deployments suggest otherwise. The US has ordered the deployment of USS Tripoli along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit from Japan to the Middle East. Additional reinforcements include around 2,500 Marines and multiple warships such as USS Boxer, USS New Orleans, USS Abraham Lincoln, and USS Gerald R. Ford. These deployments aim to secure the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route carrying nearly 20% of global oil supply. With Iran warning it will not back down and the US increasing its military presence, the situation is rapidly approaching a critical and potentially more destructive phase.


