US strikes Iran as Trump arrives for NATO summit in Ankara

The United States launched a fresh wave of military strikes on Iranian targets after revoking a temporary sanctions waiver. 

The waiver had allowed limited Iranian oil exports. The action followed attacks on three commercial tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions across the Gulf.

The US CENTCOM said the strikes were intended to impose “heavy costs” on Iran for targeting commercial shipping in an international waterway. 

British maritime security officials reported that three vessels were hit near Oman, including one by a drone, while Qatar identified one of the damaged ships as an LNG tanker.

Furthermore, Washington said future economic relief would depend on Tehran adhering to the terms of the US-Iran memorandum of understanding, although officials stressed negotiations toward a broader agreement would continue.

The developments coincided with President Donald Trump's arrival in Ankara for the NATO summit, where he renewed criticism of NATO allies for insufficient support during Iran war.

Moreover, he announced the removal of CAATSA sanctions on Turkey and signalling that Washington would consider restoring Ankara to the F-35 fighter jet program.

Despite the tensions, NATO leaders unveiled defence initiatives worth an estimated $50 billion, reaffirmed support for Ukraine and pledged increased investment in military capabilities.