Tensions Rise in Middle East as US-Iran Standoff Deepens and Hormuz Blockade Persists

Live updates show a deepening US-Iran standoff and regional volatility: Trump says there are no talks with Iran and that the naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz remains in full force, while Kushner says the US will be very patient with the regime; reports note UAE air defenses activated over missile threats, Israel strikes Hamas targets in Gaza, Iran signals a hardened posture and seeks concessions, Lebanon discusses extending UNIFIL’s mandate, and a vessel was struck in Hormuz as tensions rise.