US-Iran war latest news: Key developments from May 19
- US President Donald Trump warned that Iran must never obtain nuclear weapons and said the US military remains “locked and loaded” for possible future strikes.
- Trump claimed he was just an hour away from launching another attack on Iran, adding that Tehran was “begging” for a deal as negotiations continued under growing pressure.
- Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi accused Trump of disguising threats as diplomacy, warning that Iran was “united and resolutely” prepared to confront any military aggression.
- Iran’s military also warned it would open “new fronts” against the United States if Washington resumed attacks, signalling the risk of wider regional escalation.
- US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent called on Europe, Asia and Middle Eastern allies to intensify sanctions and dismantle Iran’s “shadow banking” and terror-financing networks.
- Washington imposed fresh sanctions on Iran-based Amin Exchange and multiple front companies, while also blacklisting 19 vessels accused of transporting Iranian oil and petrochemicals.
- Trump said Chinese President Xi Jinping personally assured him that Beijing would not send weapons to Iran, a promise Trump said he trusted.
- Gulf tensions deepened after the UAE announced it intercepted six hostile drones and said investigations linked attacks on the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant to drones launched from Iraqi territory.
- NATO discussed the possibility of deploying forces to the Strait of Hormuz if the key shipping route remains disrupted, though alliance officials stressed the decision would ultimately be political.
- G7 finance ministers and global leaders expressed growing concern over the Strait of Hormuz crisis, warning that continued disruption could fuel economic instability, rising energy prices and global supply shocks.
Oil prices fall after Trump pauses Iran strike
Oil prices dropped more than 1 percent after US President Donald Trump said he had paused a planned attack on Iran to allow time for negotiations aimed at ending the Middle East conflict.
Brent crude futures fell to just above $110 per barrel, while US oil futures dropped to around $103 per barrel.
Markets remain focused on talks between Washington and Tehran amid concerns over the continued disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route that previously handled about one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies.
BPCL ramps up spot crude buying amid Middle East disruption
Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited is increasing spot crude purchases and frequently revising its import strategy as disruptions in Middle East oil supplies continue amid the US-Israel conflict with Iran.
BPCL Chairman Sanjay Khanna said force majeure declarations by some Gulf suppliers have forced the company to step up spot buying to ensure its refineries continue operating at 115 per cent capacity.
India has faced rising crude prices and supply concerns following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. BPCL currently sources around 40-45 per cent of its crude requirements from Russian oil, much of it purchased through spot markets.
The company also said discounts on Russian crude have narrowed significantly, while it continues to face losses on diesel and petrol sales despite recent fuel price hikes.
Trump warns US may “hit” Iran again if nuclear talks stall
US President Donald Trump reiterated that preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons remains his “bottom line”, while warning that Washington could launch another military strike if negotiations fail to progress.
Speaking at the White House, Trump said the US military was “locked and loaded”, with naval ships fully armed and ready for action, adding that he would likely wait until early next week before making a final decision.
“We may have to hit them one more time,” Trump said, expressing frustration over the pace of talks and questioning whether Iran was genuinely committed to reaching an agreement.
He also acknowledged the financial strain the conflict has placed on Americans, saying he was sorry people were feeling the impact but insisted the war “was absolutely the right thing to do”.
US imposes fresh sanctions on Iranian exchange network
The Trump administration has announced a new round of sanctions targeting an Iranian foreign currency exchange house and several companies accused of facilitating financial transactions for Iranian banks.
The US Treasury Department said the measures target Iran-based Amin Exchange, also known as Ebrahimi and Associates Partnership Company, which authorities say operates through a network of front companies in the UAE, Türkiye and Hong Kong.
Washington also imposed sanctions on 19 vessels allegedly involved in transporting Iranian petroleum and petrochemical products to international buyers.
NATO says Hormuz mission would require political approval
Alexus Grynkewich said any potential NATO mission in the Strait of Hormuz would ultimately depend on a political decision by alliance members.
Speaking in Brussels after meeting military chiefs from NATO countries, Grynkewich said the conditions under which NATO might operate in the strategic waterway would be determined by political leaders rather than military officials.
Trump says Xi promised China would not arm Iran
US President Donald Trump said Chinese President Xi Jinping assured him that Beijing would not send weapons to Iran.
“That’s a beautiful promise. I take him at his word. I appreciated it,” Trump told reporters at the White House.
China last month dismissed as “groundless” reports claiming it was planning to provide weapons to Iran.
Bessent urges global crackdown on Iran’s terror financing networks
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent called on international partners to intensify action against Iran’s financial networks, saying the US should not stand alone in confronting what he described as Tehran’s support for terrorism.
Speaking at the “No Money for Terror” conference in Paris, Bessent urged countries to designate Iranian financiers, expose shell and front companies, close bank branches and dismantle proxy networks linked to Iran.
He also called on partners in the Middle East and Asia to target Iran’s “shadow banking” system, warning that global cooperation is essential as terrorist threats increasingly cross borders.
Bessent thanked French minister Roland Lescure for hosting the conference and said there should be “no room for excuses” if countries are serious about stopping terror financing.
Bessent warns banks over Iran’s “shadow banking” network
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Iran’s “shadow banking” system is helping finance terrorism through illicit international transfers, warning financial institutions to remain alert to Tehran’s efforts to exploit the global financial system.
Bessent said the Treasury Department’s “Economic Fury” campaign is working to dismantle Iran’s shadow banking networks and shadow fleet through expanded sanctions and enforcement measures.
UAE intercepts six hostile drones
The UAE Ministry of Defense said its air defense systems intercepted and destroyed six hostile drones over the past 48 hours that were targeting civilian and strategic locations across the country.
The ministry said there were no casualties or damage to key facilities, adding that the armed forces acted with a high level of readiness and efficiency.
Authorities also said investigations into the May 17 attack on the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant found that the drones involved, including one that struck an electrical generator outside the facility’s perimeter, originated from Iraqi territory.
The UAE said it reserves the right to take all necessary measures to protect its sovereignty and national security in line with international law, while reaffirming the armed forces’ readiness to respond to any threats.
Trump says US could strike Iran again
US President Donald Trump said American forces may need to launch fresh attacks on Iran, claiming Tehran is “begging” to make a deal.
Speaking at the White House, Trump said he was just one hour away from authorising new strikes on Iran, with US naval ships reportedly loaded with missiles and other weapons ready for deployment.
He added that the US military could carry out “another big hit” on Iran as Washington pushes for a peace agreement aimed at ending the conflict.
Israeli strike hits southern Lebanon
An Israeli air strike targeted the outskirts of al-Burj al-Shamali town in southern Lebanon, according to reports from journalists on the ground.
The latest attack comes amid ongoing hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, which resumed on March 2.
According to Lebanon’s Health Ministry, at least 3,042 people have been killed in Israeli attacks across the country since fighting restarted.
Iran Warns It Is Ready to Confront Any US Military Aggression
Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi criticised US President Donald Trump over his claim that he postponed a planned attack on Iran.
Writing on X, Gharibabadi said Trump’s comments still suggested readiness for a large-scale assault “at any moment”.
“This means calling ‘threat’ by the name of ‘opportunity for peace’,” he wrote, adding that Iran remains “united and resolutely” prepared to confront any military aggression.
NATO Considers Hormuz Deployment Amid Shipping Crisis
NATO is reportedly discussing the possibility of deploying troops to the Strait of Hormuz to help secure the passage of ships if the strategic waterway is not reopened by early July, according to Bloomberg.
The discussions come amid growing international concern over disruptions to global shipping and energy supplies passing through the key maritime route.
US Treasury Chief Urges Allies to Intensify Crackdown on Iran’s Financing Networks
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on Tuesday called on allied nations to step up efforts against Iran’s financing networks, saying Washington would expand and update its sanctions lists to help financial institutions better detect and disrupt sophisticated terror financing operations.
Speaking at an anti-terrorism financing conference in Paris following the G7 finance ministers’ meeting, Bessent urged international partners to “stand with us in full measure” against Iran, according to prepared remarks for the event.
G7 Calls for Reopening of Strait of Hormuz Amid Global Economic Concerns
Finance ministers from the G7 nations have stressed the need to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, warning that continued disruption could deepen risks to the global economy.
In a joint statement, the group also highlighted the importance of addressing global current account imbalances and reaffirmed their commitment to multilateral cooperation in tackling economic challenges and financial instability.
Iran Warns of “New Fronts” if US Resumes Military Attacks
Iran’s military warned on Tuesday that it would “open new fronts” against the United States if Washington resumes attacks, following comments by US President Donald Trump that he had paused a planned offensive in hopes of securing a deal.
Army spokesman Mohammad Akraminia said Iran would respond with “new equipment and new methods” if the US launched further aggression.
“If the enemy is foolish enough to fall into the Zionist trap again and launches new aggression against our beloved Iran, we will open new fronts against it,” Akraminia said, according to Iran’s ISNA news agency.
Lebanon Says More Than 3,000 Killed in Israeli Attacks Since March
At least 3,042 people have been killed in Israeli attacks across Lebanon since March 2, according to the latest figures released by Lebanon’s Health Ministry.
The ministry added that another 9,301 people have been wounded during the same period as cross-border hostilities continue.
Kuwait and Pakistan Hold Talks to Boost Military Cooperation
The chief of staff of Kuwait’s Armed Forces held talks with the Pakistani Army’s director of operations to discuss strengthening military cooperation between the two countries, according to Kuwaiti officials.
During the meeting in Kuwait, both sides also reviewed bilateral relations and explored opportunities for enhanced joint military defence coordination.
Gulf Officials Reportedly Unaware of Iran Strike Plan Mentioned by Trump
Several officials from Gulf countries cited by US President Donald Trump as urging him not to strike Iran reportedly said they were unaware of the imminent attack plan he described, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal.
Trump said on Monday that he decided to postpone a planned attack on Iran after leaders from Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE asked him to “hold off” to allow more time for diplomacy and negotiations.
Israeli Forces Intercept Gaza-Bound Aid Boat From Global Sumud Flotilla
Israeli forces have intercepted one of the remaining vessels from the Global Sumud Flotilla while it was sailing towards Gaza, according to the group’s online tracker.
The boat, named “Andros”, was reportedly stopped about 82 nautical miles (around 150km) off the coast of Gaza.
A livestream from the flotilla showed Israeli forces approaching the vessel in a dinghy while activists on board raised their hands in the air. The broadcast later cut off and displayed a message stating that the boat had been intercepted.
According to the Global Sumud Flotilla tracker, Israeli forces have now intercepted 61 boats, while nine vessels are still continuing their journey towards Gaza.
UN Report Warns Gaza Humanitarian Crisis Deepens Amid Reconstruction Challenges
Humanitarian conditions in Gaza remain severe due to ongoing displacement and shortages of water and medicine, according to a report presented to the UN Security Council by envoys to Gaza’s Board of Peace.
The report said the biggest obstacle to implementing a comprehensive reconstruction plan is the refusal of Hamas to disarm and give up control of the territory.
It added that international investment in Gaza’s rebuilding efforts depends on meeting those conditions, despite significant aid pledges from donors. However, the report noted a major gap between promised funding and actual spending on the ground.
The Board of Peace also urged the UN Security Council to pressure Hamas and other Palestinian factions to accept the proposed roadmap for reconstruction and governance.
Qatar Warns Against Disrupting Strait of Hormuz as LNG Traffic Remains Limited
Qatar’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed al-Ansari said no country has the right under any circumstances to obstruct access to the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing regional tensions.
Al-Ansari noted that only two LNG tankers have crossed the strategic waterway so far, stressing that limited movement does not mean maritime traffic has returned to normal.
Qatar Says Dialogue With Trump Ongoing Amid Rising Tensions With Iran
Qatar’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed al-Ansari said communication with US President Donald Trump would continue as diplomatic efforts intensify over the regional conflict.
Commenting on Trump’s claim that he postponed a planned strike on Iran following requests from Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE, al-Ansari said the move represented “a good response”.
Addressing ties with Tehran, al-Ansari said Qatar remains in contact with Iran and that the two countries continue to share “positive relations”.
At the same time, he acknowledged tensions between the neighbours, saying Iran’s decision to attack Qatar posed “a threat to the relations between both countries”.
Qatar Says Contacts With Trump Will Continue Despite Tensions With Iran
Qatar’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed al-Ansari said communication with US President Donald Trump would continue amid ongoing regional tensions.
Responding to Trump’s statement that he delayed a planned attack on Iran following requests from Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, al-Ansari said the decision reflected “a good response”.
Speaking about ties with Tehran, al-Ansari said Qatar remains in contact with Iran and described relations between the two countries as “positive”.
However, he also acknowledged growing strain, saying that “Iran has chosen to attack Qatar, and this is a threat to the relations between both countries”.
Qatar Says Strait of Hormuz Must Remain Open Amid Ongoing Regional Tensions
Qatar’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed al-Ansari said no country has the right under any circumstances to obstruct access to the Strait of Hormuz amid heightened regional tensions.
Al-Ansari added that only two LNG tankers have crossed the strategic waterway so far, stressing that this does not indicate a return to normal maritime traffic.
He said special arrangements are currently being used to facilitate the export of energy products through the strait.
Qatar Says Talks Ongoing to Prevent Further Escalation in Iran Conflict
Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs says regional and international contacts are continuing to prevent renewed escalation amid the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran.
Speaking during a press conference, the ministry said communication remains “ongoing” between regional leaders and parties involved in the conflict in an effort to avoid a return to wider hostilities.
Israel’s Finance Minister Says ICC Has Requested Arrest Warrant Against Him
Israel’s far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich says he has been informed that the International Criminal Court has requested an arrest warrant against him.
In November 2024, the ICC issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant over alleged crimes against humanity and war crimes linked to Israel’s war in Gaza.
The court’s judges and prosecutors have since faced restrictions from banks, credit card companies and technology firms, including Amazon, following sanctions imposed by the administration of US President Donald Trump.
The ICC had also issued arrest warrants for several Hamas leaders, many of whom were later killed in Israeli military operations.
Israeli Army Orders Evacuations in Southern Lebanon Ahead of Planned Strikes
The Israeli military has issued evacuation warnings to residents of 12 towns and villages in southern Lebanon, urging them to leave their homes immediately ahead of anticipated attacks.
In a statement, the army said the planned strikes would target infrastructure linked to Hezbollah.
Iran Proposal to US Calls for Sanctions Relief and End to Regional Conflict
Iran’s latest proposal to the United States includes demands for the lifting of sanctions on Tehran, the release of frozen Iranian assets and an end to the maritime blockade on the country, according to Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi.
Quoted by IRNA news agency, Gharibabadi said the proposal also calls for an end to fighting across the region, including Israel’s military campaign in Lebanon, the withdrawal of US forces from areas near Iran and compensation for war-related damages.
Reports suggest the US considered the revised proposal submitted by Iran on Sunday to be inadequate, raising expectations that Washington could resume military action.
According to Axios, US President Donald Trump is expected to meet with senior national security officials in the White House Situation Room later today to discuss potential military options.
Gaza Health Ministry Reports More Deaths Despite Israel-Hamas Ceasefire
Gaza’s Health Ministry said two people were killed and three others injured in Israeli attacks across the territory over the past 24 hours, despite the ongoing ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
The ministry added that another individual previously wounded in an Israeli strike also died during the same period.
According to the ministry, 880 people have been killed in Israeli attacks since the ceasefire came into effect in October 2025.
The total death toll in Gaza since October 2023 has now reached 72,772, the ministry said, adding that many of those killed were women and children. Israel launched its military offensive following the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, in which around 1,200 people were killed.