US President Donald Trump has announced that he has cancelled a planned military strike on Iran, saying the decision is conditional on the possibility of reaching a rapid agreement that includes the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

The announcement came amid heightened tensions in West Asia, where Iran has warned that any military action by the United States or Israel would trigger a "decisive and proportionate" response.

Trump Signals Preference for Diplomacy

In a statement posted on social media, Trump said the planned attack had been called off after what he described as an agreement on the "parameters" of a possible deal.

He indicated that Washington would pursue negotiations, provided progress could be made quickly, particularly on restoring unrestricted navigation through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.

The decision follows several days of escalating rhetoric, during which Trump had warned Iran of severe military action.

Iran Warns Against Any Aggression

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reiterated Tehran's position that any military aggression by the United States or Israel would receive a firm response.

During separate telephone conversations with the foreign ministers of Türkiye, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, Araghchi said Iran was prepared to respond proportionately to any attack against its territory.

Iranian officials have also maintained that any assault launched from US military bases in the region would invite retaliation against those facilities.

US Embassies Issue Advisory

Amid continuing regional tensions, US embassies across the Middle East have advised American citizens to remain prepared for possible security deterioration and unforeseen escalation.

The advisory was issued a day after President Trump warned Iran that Washington was prepared to act forcefully if necessary.

Shipping Through Hormuz Declines Sharply

The geopolitical uncertainty has significantly affected maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's busiest energy shipping routes.

According to shipping intelligence firm Kpler, vessel traffic through the strait declined by nearly 77% in a single day, reflecting growing concerns over regional security and commercial shipping.

Fighting Continues in Gaza

Despite diplomatic developments surrounding Iran, fighting continued in the Gaza Strip.

According to reports cited in the live updates, Israeli military operations killed several Palestinians across Gaza, while airstrikes reportedly damaged infrastructure, including a medical warehouse in Deir el-Balah.

Israeli authorities also announced the killing of two Hamas commanders in separate operations, while Palestinian officials reported civilian casualties, including children.

Saudi Arabia Reportedly Urged De-escalation

Media reports said Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman spoke with President Trump before the decision to cancel the planned strike.

According to the reports, Saudi Arabia expressed concern that attacks on Iran's energy infrastructure could trigger retaliatory strikes against Gulf energy facilities and further destabilise the region.

The developments have raised cautious optimism about the possibility of renewed diplomatic engagement, although tensions between the United States, Iran and Israel remain high, and no formal agreement has yet been announced.

The conflict between the United States and Iran intensified on Friday after an unidentified projectile struck a commercial tanker off the coast of Oman, leaving the vessel disabled and raising fresh concerns over maritime security in one of the world's busiest energy corridors. The latest incident came as US President Donald Trump warned that Washington was prepared to respond "very hard" against Iran, while reports suggested the US military was weighing additional strikes in the coming days.

According to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), the tanker was hit approximately 11 nautical miles northeast of Limah, Oman. The projectile damaged the vessel's engine room, leaving it without propulsion. Regional coast guard authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. No casualties or oil spill have been reported so far.

The attack adds to growing instability around the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic waterway through which nearly one-fifth of the world's crude oil supply passes. Maritime intelligence firm Kpler reported that vessel traffic through the strait dropped sharply, with only five ships transiting on Thursday compared to 22 the previous day, reflecting increasing concerns among global shipping operators.

Trump Signals Possible Military Escalation

Speaking during a Cabinet meeting, President Donald Trump reiterated that the United States remained prepared to intensify military pressure on Iran if necessary.

"We will be hitting them very hard," Trump said, expressing frustration over stalled diplomatic efforts. However, US defence officials indicated that military options remain under review and that no final decision has been taken regarding fresh strikes.

According to reports, the Pentagon has prepared multiple operational scenarios, including strikes targeting Iranian missile infrastructure and military facilities. However, officials continue to weigh the geopolitical and economic consequences of any expanded military campaign.

Iran Issues Strong Warning

Iranian officials responded by warning that any new American military action would trigger a broader response targeting critical US and Israeli infrastructure.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf claimed the country had emerged stronger from the ongoing conflict and stressed that Iran was prepared for future challenges. Tehran has maintained that it will continue defending its strategic interests while accusing Washington of escalating regional instability.

Middle East Conflict Continues to Widen

The broader regional crisis also showed no signs of easing.

In Lebanon, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam condemned recent Israeli military operations in southern Lebanon, describing them as a violation of the ceasefire agreement and Lebanese sovereignty. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun simultaneously announced plans to expand army deployment across southern Lebanon as Israeli forces gradually withdraw from certain positions.

Meanwhile, violence continued across the occupied West Bank, where Israeli military operations resulted in additional arrests during raids around Nablus. Palestinian news agency Wafa reported that several homes were searched and temporary military interrogation centres established during the operations.

Yemen's Houthi movement also claimed that its maritime blockade had forced several Saudi oil tankers to alter their routes, although independent verification of those claims remains unavailable.

Energy Markets Under Pressure

The continuing instability across the Gulf has kept global energy markets on edge. Analysts warn that prolonged disruption to shipping routes around the Strait of Hormuz could place further pressure on international oil prices, inflation and supply chains.

The latest attack on commercial shipping is expected to renew concerns among insurers and shipping companies already facing elevated security risks across the region.

With military activity increasing, diplomatic channels showing little progress and strategic waterways facing growing threats, the Middle East remains on high alert as the international community watches closely for the next developments.

 US President Donald Trump convened a Cabinet meeting at Camp David on Friday after Iran claimed responsibility for striking two oil tankers attempting to transit the Strait of Hormuz under US military escort, marking another escalation in the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

According to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the two tankers were halted after allegedly attempting to pass through what Tehran described as an "undeclared route" under American aerial protection.

The Iranian military claimed that four additional oil tankers reversed course following the attack.

Strait of Hormuz Remains Flashpoint

The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's busiest energy shipping routes, has witnessed severe disruptions since the outbreak of hostilities involving the United States, Israel and Iran.

Iran and the United States continue to dispute the designated shipping corridors through the strategic waterway. Tehran has maintained that vessels must comply with its navigation rules, while Washington has continued to escort commercial shipping through the region.

The prolonged tensions have significantly affected global energy markets, with crude oil prices rising above $90 per barrel following recent military exchanges between Washington and Tehran.

Regional Fighting Continues

Military activity continued across the region on Friday.

Kuwait's Defence Ministry said its air defence systems intercepted Iranian drones targeting military and strategic facilities, adding that there were no reported casualties.

Meanwhile, the Israeli military carried out a large-scale explosion near the historic Beaufort Castle in southern Lebanon, stating that it targeted Hezbollah tunnel networks and military infrastructure.

Lebanese officials accused Israel of violating the existing ceasefire, while Israel maintained that the operation was necessary to safeguard communities along its northern border.

Camp David Meeting Focuses on Iran Conflict

The emergency Cabinet meeting at Camp David comes as the Trump administration evaluates its next steps in the conflict, which has continued for several months despite earlier expectations of a shorter military campaign.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the retreat would provide Cabinet members an opportunity to review major national security issues, with the Iran conflict expected to dominate discussions.

Officials are also expected to assess the economic impact of the conflict, particularly rising fuel prices and broader inflationary pressures affecting American consumers.

Political Pressure Mounts

The prolonged military campaign has become an increasingly contentious issue in US domestic politics.

A recent resolution in the US Senate seeking to express disapproval of the ongoing military operation narrowly failed, reflecting growing divisions in Congress over the administration's strategy.

At the same time, higher global oil prices have boosted earnings for major energy companies, while increasing fuel costs continue to affect households and businesses.

Political analysts suggest the economic consequences of the conflict could become a key issue ahead of the upcoming US midterm elections, as voters weigh concerns over inflation, energy prices and foreign policy.

With military operations continuing across multiple fronts and diplomatic efforts showing little progress, the situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains one of the most closely watched flashpoints in global geopolitics.

 The United States is considering launching a fresh round of military strikes against Iran as early as this weekend, according to US officials familiar with ongoing military planning, amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran.

While no final decision has been made, officials said multiple military options remain under review, with President Donald Trump indicating that the US is prepared to intensify pressure if diplomatic efforts fail to produce results.

Speaking during a Cabinet meeting on Friday, Trump expressed frustration over the lack of progress in negotiations with Iran.

"We will be hitting them very hard. At some point, they're going to say, 'We just can't take it anymore,'" Trump said.

Military Options Under Review

According to officials, United States Central Command has developed multiple operational plans and positioned military assets in preparation for possible action.

Among the options reportedly under consideration is a two-week air campaign targeting Iran's missile infrastructure. Military planners have also evaluated potential strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, including the underground Pickaxe Mountain complex south of Tehran.

However, officials stressed that no operation has been approved, and the plans could still be modified or cancelled.

Energy Targets Remain Sensitive

The US administration has also reviewed proposals targeting Iran's energy infrastructure but has so far refrained from approving such operations.

Officials believe attacks on Iran's oil and energy facilities could trigger retaliatory strikes against energy installations across the Gulf region, potentially disrupting global oil supplies and increasing volatility in international energy markets.

Earlier this week, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz publicly stated that Israel supports targeting Iran's energy sector to increase economic pressure on Tehran.

"We very much want to strike Iran's energy targets — the US is not approving it at this time," Katz said.

Focus on Nuclear Infrastructure

Military planners have also accelerated preparations for potential strikes on Iran's nuclear infrastructure as concerns persist over Tehran's missile and nuclear capabilities.

Officials cautioned that the list of possible targets extends beyond a single facility and remains subject to ongoing strategic assessments.

At present, there is no indication that Israel would participate directly in any new US military operation if strikes are authorised.

White House Reaffirms Pressure Campaign

Responding to reports about possible military action, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the administration remains committed to maintaining pressure on Iran.

"Iran will continue to pay until they come to the table in what President Trump deems a meaningful way," Leavitt said.

The latest developments underscore growing uncertainty in the Middle East as diplomatic efforts continue alongside military preparations. Any decision to launch further strikes could have significant implications for regional security, global energy markets and ongoing international efforts to reduce tensions between the United States and Iran.

 The prolonged absence of Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei from public view has reportedly become one of the highest-priority intelligence concerns for the United States and Israel, with reports claiming that both the CIA and Mossad are actively trying to determine his location and operational status.

According to reports citing Western intelligence sources, Mojtaba Khamenei has remained out of the public eye for nearly five months after assuming Iran's highest political and religious office in March 2026, following the reported death of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, during a US-Israeli strike on Tehran's leadership compound.

Since taking over, Mojtaba has not delivered a televised address, appeared at public events or engaged in conventional official communications, creating uncertainty over his whereabouts and the extent of his control over Iran's leadership.

Intelligence Agencies Face Tracking Challenges

Reports indicate that American and Israeli intelligence agencies have struggled to trace Mojtaba Khamenei because of an unusually strict security protocol.

Unlike previous Iranian leaders, he is believed to avoid using mobile phones, computers and other digital communication devices. Intelligence officials quoted in international media claim that he relies on handwritten messages delivered through trusted couriers associated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

The absence of electronic communications has significantly limited intelligence agencies' ability to intercept messages or monitor his movements.

Underground Bunker Speculation

Security analysts believe Mojtaba Khamenei may be operating from a heavily fortified underground command facility in Tehran or from a network of secure locations near the religious city of Qom.

Some former intelligence officials have also suggested that Iran could be employing elaborate deception measures, including the use of security decoys, to conceal the Supreme Leader's location.

His continued disappearance from public life has also sparked speculation regarding his health following the military strike that reportedly killed his father earlier this year.

Although US intelligence assessments reportedly indicate that Mojtaba remains alive and continues to exercise authority, rumours persist that he may have suffered injuries during the attack.

Leadership Questions Continue

Questions over Iran's leadership intensified after Mojtaba skipped the country's traditional Nowruz address in March, choosing instead to release a brief written statement through official communication channels.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has publicly stated that he has personally met the Supreme Leader, although intelligence agencies reportedly remain uncertain about when and where those meetings occurred.

The lack of visual confirmation has fuelled continued speculation among international observers regarding the functioning of Iran's political leadership.

IRGC Playing Larger Role

The reports come at a time of continuing geopolitical tensions involving Iran, including concerns over nuclear infrastructure, regional security and maritime activity around the Strait of Hormuz.

Analysts believe Mojtaba's rise to power received strong backing from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which has assumed an increasingly prominent role in military decision-making and internal security during his absence from public life.

Western governments are closely monitoring whether the IRGC has gained greater influence over Iran's strategic and defence policies while the Supreme Leader continues to operate under extraordinary secrecy.

Growing International Attention

The unusual level of secrecy surrounding Iran's highest office has made Mojtaba Khamenei one of the most closely watched figures in international intelligence circles.

While Iranian authorities have maintained that the country's leadership remains fully functional, the absence of public appearances has continued to generate speculation about decision-making inside Tehran and the balance of power between civilian institutions and the military establishment.

Officials in Washington and Tel Aviv have not publicly commented on the reported intelligence operations, but analysts believe developments surrounding Iran's leadership will remain under close international scrutiny amid ongoing regional tensions.

US Central Command said Iran fired a series of ballistic missiles at a US base in Jordan late Tuesday, in what it described as a "surprise attack." All the missiles were intercepted, according to CENTCOM, and Jordan's military said its own air defences separately shot down five missiles launched from Iran. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said its air force had targeted the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base and a CENTCOM facility in Jordan, and separately confirmed it had struck vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. In a statement carried by Iranian state media, the IRGC said its "resistance" would continue as long as it viewed American actions against Iran's interests as continuing.

Trump responded with unusually blunt language in a Fox News interview Wednesday, vowing the US would hit Iran "hard" and that "they're going to get a beating," using considerably harsher, profanity-laced language in describing the intended response. He said US forces had only minutes to shoot down the incoming Iranian missiles targeting Jordan.

Hours after the Jordan attack, US and Saudi forces launched joint airstrikes on pro-Iran militia targets in eastern Iraq, killing at least 20 members of Iraq's Popular Mobilisation Forces and wounding 32 others, according to the group itself. CENTCOM and Saudi Arabia said the strikes targeted Iran-backed militias responsible for recent attacks on US troops and Saudi energy infrastructure, adding that the operation had been coordinated with the Iraqi government. Trump described the pro-Iranian militia groups as a "cancer on the world."

The exchange marks the most serious flare-up since Trump abruptly suspended a 13-day US bombing campaign against Iran the previous Friday, citing what he called "good talks" underway with Tehran. That pause had briefly halted hostilities, with Iran also appearing to stand down its own strikes over the weekend — a lull that lasted only a few days before Tuesday night's attack reignited the conflict.

Despite the renewed fighting, Trump indicated he still intends to let US negotiators continue talks with Iran, even though the latest strikes have disrupted some diplomatic engagement, with Iran reportedly taking a defiant tone in discussing the negotiations. Israel, which struck Iran alongside the US in an earlier, larger wave of combat operations this year, is not a party to the current round of talks and has not participated in this latest exchange.

With both sides now trading strikes again after barely a week of calm, the coming days are likely to determine whether this marks a temporary escalation or a full collapse of the ceasefire framework that had briefly held.

Joint airstrikes follow wave of drone attacks as tensions escalate across the Middle East despite ongoing diplomatic efforts

The United States and Saudi Arabia carried out coordinated airstrikes against Iran-aligned armed groups in Iraq on Wednesday, marking a significant escalation in regional tensions following a series of drone attacks targeting US forces and Saudi energy infrastructure.

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said the precision strikes targeted logistics hubs and weapons facilities allegedly used by Iran-backed militias operating in eastern Iraq. According to CENTCOM, the operation was launched after more than 30 drone attacks directed at US military installations and Saudi oil facilities over the past 72 hours.

In a statement posted on X, CENTCOM said the drone attacks failed to achieve their objectives but warned that Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its allied groups must cease attacks on American personnel and regional partners or face further military action.

Netanyahu meets Trump at White House

The military operation coincided with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to Washington, where he held a nearly 90-minute meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House.

Following the talks, Netanyahu described the meeting as one of the most productive discussions he had ever held with the US President.

In a video statement, the Israeli Prime Minister said both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and discussed broader regional security issues.

"Our shared objective remains ensuring that Iran never develops nuclear weapons," Netanyahu said, adding that both governments remain fully coordinated on strategic matters concerning Israel's security.

Iraqi militia reports casualties

Iraq's Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) condemned the strikes, calling them a violation of Iraqi sovereignty and describing the attacks as a dangerous escalation.

The PMF's command in Nineveh province claimed that eight members were killed and four others injured in the strikes, while separate reports indicated damage to militia facilities in Basra and other regions.

The Iraqi armed group said authorities were assessing the extent of casualties and infrastructure damage.

Regional tensions continue to rise

The latest military action comes amid renewed instability across the Middle East despite ongoing diplomatic efforts to reduce hostilities.

Jordan said its air defence systems intercepted five Iranian missiles that crossed its airspace early Wednesday after the IRGC claimed to have targeted a US military base and Central Command facilities in the kingdom.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia confirmed that the joint operation was carried out under its right to self-defence following repeated drone attacks on petroleum facilities in the kingdom. Riyadh maintained that it does not seek further escalation but would continue responding to threats against its territory and critical infrastructure.

Shipping concerns persist

The security situation in key maritime routes also remained volatile.

Iran's Revolutionary Guard claimed it had stopped three oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, warning that vessels following what it described as "illegal" US navigation directives could face similar action.

Shipping activity through Hormuz remains significantly lower than normal, while traffic through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait has increased, according to maritime monitoring reports.

The continued disruptions have renewed concerns over global energy supplies and shipping security, although crude oil markets remained relatively stable during early trading.

Diplomatic efforts continue

Despite the military exchanges, diplomatic engagement has not completely stalled.

Officials from several Gulf countries continue to push for de-escalation, while negotiations involving regional stakeholders remain ongoing to prevent the conflict from expanding further.

However, the latest exchange of strikes underscores the fragile security environment in West Asia, where military operations and diplomatic initiatives continue to unfold simultaneously.

 Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to brief US President Donald Trump on Iran's alleged efforts to revive its nuclear programme at the Pickaxe Mountain underground complex during their upcoming meeting in Washington, according to media reports.

Citing an Israeli source, reports said Netanyahu intends to present what Israel describes as evidence suggesting that Tehran is continuing to advance its nuclear programme despite publicly expressing willingness to pursue diplomacy.

The issue is expected to feature prominently in discussions between the two leaders as tensions over Iran's nuclear activities remain high.

Israel to Present Intelligence Claims

According to reports, Netanyahu is expected to argue that Iran has not been genuine in its diplomatic engagement and has continued strengthening its nuclear infrastructure.

Israeli officials reportedly believe that parts of Iran's nuclear programme have been relocated to the Pickaxe Mountain complex, which they view as evidence that Tehran continues to pursue sensitive nuclear activities.

Earlier reports had also suggested that Israel had gathered intelligence indicating that centrifuges were moved to the underground facility following a memorandum of understanding reached between the United States and Iran.

Iran has not publicly responded to these specific allegations.

Underground Facility Under Spotlight

Pickaxe Mountain has increasingly drawn international attention because of its proximity to the Natanz nuclear facility, one of Iran's principal uranium enrichment sites.

According to reports, the underground complex is located around 1.5 kilometres south of Natanz and was allegedly constructed beginning in 2020.

The Natanz facility itself was reportedly targeted multiple times during the recent conflict involving Iran.

Trump Previously Commented on Site

President Donald Trump has made several public remarks regarding the Pickaxe Mountain facility in recent weeks.

Earlier, he stated that the site had not been targeted during military operations because the United States lacked sufficient intelligence indicating active nuclear operations inside the complex.

However, during a subsequent meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, Trump suggested that military action against the facility remained under consideration.

In another interview earlier this month, the US President also indicated that Washington continued monitoring developments at the site while noting that intelligence agencies had not confirmed active centrifuge operations inside the underground complex.

Ceasefire and Regional Security Also on Agenda

Apart from Iran's nuclear programme, Netanyahu is also expected to discuss efforts to preserve ceasefire arrangements in Lebanon and Gaza, where Iran-backed groups remain active.

According to reports, discussions are likely to include the broader regional security situation and recent diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions in West Asia.

Trump has recently indicated support for renewed diplomatic engagement even as the United States continues to maintain pressure on Iran over its nuclear programme.

High-Level Meeting Amid Regional Tensions

The planned meeting comes at a time when negotiations over Iran's nuclear activities remain uncertain and regional security continues to dominate international diplomacy.

While Washington and Tehran have periodically explored diplomatic channels, concerns over Iran's nuclear infrastructure and missile capabilities continue to shape US-Israel strategic cooperation.

Neither the White House nor the Israeli Prime Minister's Office has officially disclosed the full agenda for the meeting.

A new video allegedly linked to Iranian state-backed media has prompted heightened security attention in the United States after it appeared to target US First Lady Melania Trump and her son Barron Trump amid ongoing tensions between Washington and Tehran.

According to reports, the nearly two-minute video, titled "How to Kill Melania Trump," contains references to the First Lady's movements and includes violent rhetoric directed at members of the Trump family. The development comes as hostilities between the United States and Iran remain elevated despite a temporary pause in military operations.

Video Contains Threatening Content

The video was reportedly first circulated by Iran's Tasnim News Agency and allegedly provides details about locations frequently visited by Melania Trump in New York City.

According to reports, the footage references shopping locations, discusses potential attack methods and identifies members of her security and personal staff. It also includes threatening remarks directed at Barron Trump, the youngest son of US President Donald Trump.

The video's content has not been independently verified by US authorities.

Secret Service Monitoring Situation

The US Secret Service confirmed that it is aware of the video and is assessing the matter.

A spokesperson for the agency said it investigates all information that could be perceived as a threat against individuals under its protection.

However, officials declined to discuss operational details, citing security considerations.

No official statement has indicated whether the video represents a credible or imminent threat.

Comes Amid Heightened US-Iran Tensions

The alleged threat surfaces during a period of heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran following months of military confrontation.

In recent weeks, Iranian media has also carried imagery depicting President Donald Trump and members of his family alongside anti-American slogans, further escalating rhetorical tensions between the two countries.

The latest video marks a notable shift by specifically targeting the First Lady, whereas previous threats had largely focused on President Trump.

Trump Previously Acknowledged Iranian Threats

President Donald Trump has publicly stated on several occasions that Iran considers him a target.

Earlier this month, he said he had instructed US authorities to respond forcefully if any assassination attempt against him were ever carried out.

Media reports have also suggested that security arrangements surrounding the President have been strengthened due to perceived threats.

Pattern of Hostile Messaging

Reports indicate that Iranian media outlets and affiliated publications have previously issued hostile statements directed at several international leaders.

Earlier this year, an Iranian publication reportedly listed multiple foreign leaders, including the heads of government of the United States, Israel, the United Kingdom, France, Germany and Italy, in connection with retaliatory rhetoric following regional conflicts.

Analysts note that while such propaganda material does not necessarily translate into operational plans, it is typically reviewed seriously by intelligence and security agencies because of its potential security implications.

US authorities have not announced any changes to the security arrangements for the First Family following the video's circulation.

American pop star Katy Perry has criticised the Trump administration after the official White House TikTok account used her hit song "Firework" in a video featuring footage of US military strikes on Iran, saying she neither approved nor supported its use in that context.

Taking to social media platform X, Perry said she was "deeply appalled and angry" that her 2010 chart-topping anthem had been paired with images of military action.

"I did not approve this," the singer wrote, adding that she had not been contacted for permission before the video was published.

Song Used With Strike Footage

The controversy began after the White House shared a short black-and-white video showing US airstrikes targeting locations in Iran amid escalating tensions in West Asia.

The clip featured a segment of Perry's song "Firework", including the lyrics, "Boom, boom, boom, even brighter than the moon," synchronised with scenes of explosions. The post was accompanied by the caption, "Iran has been warned," along with a firework emoji.

Perry said the song was written as a message of hope, resilience and personal empowerment, arguing that linking it to scenes of warfare distorted its original meaning.

"I wrote this song to be an anthem of hope, healing and inner strength," she said.

Debate Over Music Licensing

The incident has reignited discussion over the use of copyrighted music by political organisations and government agencies on social media platforms.

Although platforms such as TikTok maintain licensing agreements that allow verified accounts to use commercially released music, artists have increasingly objected when their songs are used in political messaging or government campaigns without their endorsement.

Perry sold the rights to her music catalogue to Litmus Music in a multi-million-dollar deal, meaning licensing decisions may not always require her direct approval. However, artists can still publicly distance themselves from how their work is used.

Growing Pushback From Artists

Katy Perry is among several musicians who have criticised the Trump administration over the use of their music in official social media content.

Earlier, Ariana Grande objected after her song "Bye" was used in a White House video related to immigration enforcement, prompting the audio to be removed. Sabrina Carpenter also criticised the use of her music in a video concerning border operations.

Other artists, including Olivia Rodrigo, Kesha, and The Rolling Stones, have previously raised similar concerns over the political use of their songs.

White House Yet to Respond

The White House has not issued an official response to Perry's criticism or indicated whether the video will be removed.

The episode highlights the growing tension between digital political communication and artists seeking greater control over how their creative work is associated with government messaging and public policy.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said Ukraine is "ready for everything" after Iran warned of retaliation over a recent attack on an Iran-bound cargo vessel, amid rising tensions between Kyiv and Tehran.

In an interview with Sky News, Zelenskyy said Iran has already played a role in the war against Ukraine by supplying weapons to Russia, adding that Kyiv remains prepared for any further escalation.

"Iran has already attacked us by supplying weapons to Russia," Zelenskyy said. "We have to be cautious. We have to do everything not to open a new front. But we have to be honest—Iranians and North Koreans have already attacked us."

Tensions Escalate Over Cargo Vessel Attack

The latest diplomatic row follows Ukraine's reported strike on a Russian cargo vessel believed to be headed for Iran in the Caspian Sea.

The incident came shortly after Zelenskyy alleged that Russia had provided Iran with satellite intelligence to assist attacks on US military bases in West Asia.

Following the cargo vessel attack, Tehran vowed to respond, accusing Ukraine of targeting an Iranian commercial ship.

Iran Condemns Attack

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described the strike as a violation of international law and alleged that Ukraine acted at the behest of Israel.

In a statement shared on social media, Araghchi claimed the attack killed one sailor and injured another aboard the vessel.

"The attack on an Iranian commercial vessel cannot go unanswered," he said, while offering no evidence to support allegations that Israel was involved.

Iran's Foreign Ministry also summoned Ukraine's chargé d'affaires in Tehran to formally protest the incident, reiterating that Iran has not directly participated in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Zelenskyy Warns Against Further Escalation

Despite Iran's warning, Zelenskyy maintained that Ukraine would remain vigilant without seeking to widen the conflict.

"I hope they will not increase these attacks, but we have to be ready for everything," he said, adding that Ukraine cannot ignore Iran's military cooperation with Russia.

The Ukrainian leader also reiterated his government's longstanding accusation that Iran has supplied drones and other military equipment used by Russian forces during the war.

Regional Tensions Continue

The dispute comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions involving Russia, Iran, Ukraine and Western allies.

During separate conversations with European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Araghchi reiterated Iran's condemnation of the attack.

According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, Lavrov conveyed condolences over the casualties and thanked Russian authorities in the Astrakhan region for assisting the vessel's crew following the incident.

The latest exchange signals another potential flashpoint in the broader conflict, with both Ukraine and Iran adopting increasingly confrontational positions while international efforts to prevent further escalation continue.

US President Donald Trump has dismissed reports suggesting that America's military operations against Iran are straining its weapons stockpiles, asserting that the United States possesses "far more munitions than anyone in the world" and faces no shortage of ammunition.

In an interview with The Wall Street Journal, Trump rejected media reports that ongoing operations in West Asia had increased pressure on key missile inventories, including Patriot air defence missiles, Tomahawk cruise missiles, and SM-3 interceptors.

"We have far more munitions than anyone in the world, and far more than we need," Trump said.

Reports Raise Inventory Questions

Recent reports by The Wall Street Journal and CNN suggested that the pace of US offensive strikes and missile defence operations had prompted military officials to closely monitor supplies of advanced interceptor systems.

However, according to the reports, US Central Command officials believe current stockpiles remain sufficient while pre-emptive strikes against Iranian missile sites could reduce future demand for interceptors.

Trump Says Iran Is Losing Capability

Rejecting concerns over US military supplies, Trump instead claimed Iran's missile capabilities were rapidly weakening due to sustained American and Israeli operations.

"They're running out, and they're running out of areas to shoot them because they're being decimated," Trump said, referring to Iran's missile launch infrastructure.

AI Images Shared on Social Media

Trump also shared several AI-generated images on his social media platform, Truth Social, depicting attacks on Iranian energy infrastructure and oil tankers.

The digitally created posts included fictional images of strikes on Kharg Island, Iran's primary crude oil export terminal, and graphics suggesting the seizure of Iranian oil tankers. The posts do not depict actual events.

The remarks signal the administration's continued hardline approach toward Tehran amid heightened regional tensions and ongoing military operations.