Iran Resumes Tanker Traffic through Hormuz; Trump Slams War Powers Resolution

Recent developments in the Middle East show a cautious resumption of maritime activity alongside continued diplomatic friction. For the first time since April 15, Iranian-flagged oil tankers have been observed navigating the Strait of Hormuz. In tandem with this movement, Tehran has proposed that the waterway be managed jointly with Oman under international law. While Iran indicated it would consult other Gulf states, it maintained that final decision-making authority should remain with Tehran and Muscat. In the United States, President Donald Trump has forcefully pushed back against a House of Representatives resolution intended to limit his executive war powers regarding Iran. Trump labeled the legislative move "meaningless" and "unpatriotic," arguing that such restrictions undermine his administration's leverage during what he characterized as "final negotiations" with the Iranian government. The domestic political clash occurs as the administration attempts to navigate a complex web of regional hostilities. On the proxy front, the conflict in Lebanon remains a primary flashpoint. Hezbollah has officially rejected the latest ceasefire proposal, while Israeli officials stated they have no immediate plans to withdraw troops from Lebanese territory. Israeli air strikes and shelling continue in southern Lebanon, with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) asserting that peace is impossible until Israeli forces depart. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun warned that the current Washington-led ceasefire framework represents the "last chance" to prevent further escalation.