U.S. Intensifies Military Pressure on Iran Following Collapse of 60-Day Interim Deal

The conflict between the United States and Iran has escalated into an active, multi-front military confrontation following the collapse of a 60-day interim nuclear agreement. Over the last 24 hours, U.S. forces launched a fourth round of precision airstrikes targeting Iranian military barracks, resulting in at least seven deaths and 260 injuries. Simultaneously, President Trump has authorized a total naval blockade of Iran, deploying 20 warships to the region. In response, Tehran has declared an 'existential war' and officially closed the Strait of Hormuz, threatening to halt all regional energy exports. In a significant diplomatic shift, President Trump rescinded a previously announced 20% transit fee on cargo passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Instead, the U.S. has reportedly secured trade and investment agreements with Gulf allies, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, to offset revenue needs while maintaining maximum pressure on Iran. However, the military situation remains volatile, with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) retaliating via drone and missile strikes against U.S. assets in Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan. Global energy markets have reacted sharply to the hostilities, with Brent crude surging to nearly $87 per barrel, its highest level in a month. Both nations have signaled an unwillingness to return to the bargaining table immediately. Iranian officials stated they are focusing solely on national defense, while the White House has issued an ultimatum warning that U.S. strikes will expand to include civilian infrastructure, such as power plants and bridges, by next week if Tehran does not resume negotiations.