Scan to Download
Tensions between the United States and Iran escalated sharply as US President Donald Trump issued a stark warning that “the clock is ticking” for Tehran, while Iranian officials signalled they are fully prepared to respond to any renewed military action. US President Donald Trump warned that time was running out for Iran to agree to Washington's terms, amid stalled peace negotiations and a fragile ceasefire.
Reports suggest Trump has been consulting with his national security team and allies, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on potential next steps, including possible military options if talks fail.
Iran responded defiantly, saying its armed forces are fully prepared to confront any new attacks by the US or its allies, Iranian News Agency reported. A senior Iranian Defence Ministry spokesperson said the country's forces are “fully prepared to confront any new potential attack,” reflecting a hardened stance amid rising threats
Drone attacks on the UAE and Saudi Arabia, plus US and Iran rhetoric, have sparked concerns of escalation. The UAE said it’s investigating a strike on the Barakah nuclear plant and reserves the right to respond to “terrorist attacks.” Saudi Arabia intercepted 3 drones from Iraqi airspace and warned it will take action against any threat to its sovereignty.
Israeli forces are preparing to intercept the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla, according to Al Jazeera reports. Activists on the 54-ship fleet said they spotted a military vessel near their convoy. Israeli media reported PM Netanyahu held security consultations ahead of its arrival in about two days.
An Israeli source said forces would “control them” and take them to a “floating prison,” adding that two activists previously detained will not be released quickly this time.
India's External Affairs Ministry on Monday, May 18 condemned a drone strike targeted the United Arab Emirates Barakah nuclear power plant on Sunday.
Andrew Freris, CEO at Ecognosis Advisory told NDTV Profit:
US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said Trump secured a commitment from China not to provide material support to Iran. In an ABC News interview, Greer said the US didn’t ask China to act on reopening the Strait of Hormuz. China has an interest in reopening the strait but doesn’t want direct involvement.
Donald Trump Truth Social
Brent crude advanced above $110 a barrel after gaining nearly 8% last week, while West Texas Intermediate approached $107.
A drone strike triggered a fire near a nuclear power station in the emirate of Abu Dhabi on Sunday, authorities said, reporting no injuries or impact on radiation levels.
The UAE's defence ministry said the drone that targeted the facility was one of three that "entered the country from the western border direction".
The projectile struck "an electrical generator outside the inner perimeter of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the Al Dhafra area".
(Source: AFP)
Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi held high-level talks with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in Tehran, focusing on regional security, recent hostilities, and efforts to consolidate a fragile ceasefire, according to media reports. Naqvi landed in Iran on Saturday on an unscheduled trip apparently to make efforts for a negotiated solution of the conflict with the US.
The Express Tribune reported quoting Iran’s state-news agency that Naqvi on Sunday held high-level talks with Pezeshkian in Tehran.
Essential Business Intelligence, Continuous LIVE TV, Sharp Market Insights, Practical Personal Finance Advice and Latest Stories — On NDTV Profit.
