In Iran
The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) announced that inspectors would return to nuclear facilities in Iran, but Tehran insisted that inspections would only resume after a final agreement is reached with the United States.
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy warned ships against using an "unauthorized" transit route in the Strait of Hormuz. The statement said the route was created without Tehran's approval, and that ships must use the corridors designated by Iran or face the risk of sanctions. Oman had previously published guidelines for transit through the strait in coordination with the United Nations International Maritime Organization.
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 attacks. Tehran said NATO member states, including Italy and Romania, should be held accountable for their roles.
Five more South Korean commercial ships safely passed through the Strait of Hormuz, indicating a easing of restrictions on maritime traffic. South Korea announced it still has 13 ships in the strategic waterway.
In the Gulf
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio continues his Gulf tour. After visiting the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait on Wednesday, Rubio will meet with Gulf Cooperation Council leaders in Bahrain on Thursday. Rubio pledged to ensure that any agreement with Iran reflects the security and economic concerns of regional allies and that their interests will not be harmed during negotiations.
In the US
Three judges of the International Criminal Court have filed a lawsuit against the administration of US President Donald Trump. The judges argued that the sanctions imposed on them are unlawful and aim to punish them for past judicial decisions, including rulings on US war crimes in Israel and Afghanistan. They stated that the sanctions severely restrict their access to work, travel, and financial services.
In Lebanon
Two people were killed in an Israeli attack near Nabatieh on Wednesday. Meanwhile, residents of the southern village of Ain al-Arab were ordered to leave their homes or face demolition. The incidents occurred as Lebanese and Israeli officials were holding talks in Washington to discuss pilot zones aimed at paving the way for an Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon.
