U.S.-Iran Conflict Enters Prolonged Standoff as UAE Exits OPEC

The U.S.-Iran conflict has settled into a tense stalemate as the naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz enters its eighth week. President Donald Trump stated on social media that Iran is in a "state of collapse" and seeking an end to the maritime restrictions, though U.S. officials remain hesitant to accept a Pakistani-mediated proposal that would prioritize reopening the Strait over nuclear concessions. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed the administration's hardline stance, describing Iran's blockade as an "economic nuclear weapon" aimed at global energy markets. The conflict's secondary effects are deepening international divisions. The UAE has officially withdrawn from OPEC, signaling a significant fracture among Gulf allies frustrated by the ongoing energy crisis. In Europe, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has voiced pointed criticism of U.S. military strategy, highlighting a widening transatlantic rift over the global economic fallout of the standoff. Domestically, the Trump administration faces increasing pressure from Congress. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is scheduled to testify before the House Armed Services Committee today to address the lack of formal war authorization for the campaign launched on February 28. Lawmakers are expected to focus on ballooning military expenses, munitions depletion, and recent failures in drone defense that resulted in U.S. casualties and a civilian school bombing.