As the Middle East entered the 12th day of a US–Iran ceasefire and the third day of a truce between Israel and Lebanon on Sunday, April 19, President Donald Trump described Israel as a “great ally” of the United States, saying it has proven its strength in times of conflict.
Writing on Truth Social, Trump said Israel had shown loyalty and resolve under pressure. “Whether people love Israel or hate it, it has proven to be a great ally of the United States,” he said, adding that it “fights bravely and knows how to win”.
His remarks came a day after he warned Israel it was “prohibited” from carrying out further strikes on Lebanon, saying “enough is enough”. Despite this, witnesses reported additional strikes on Saturday, April 18.
Harris criticises Trump’s role in conflict
Former US Vice President Kamala Harris said Trump had entered a war driven by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, adding that such a conflict was not supported by the American public.
CENTCOM confirms blockade operations
The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) said the amphibious assault ship USS Rushmore is conducting blockade operations in the Arabian Sea.
US officials later said the blockade has resulted in a complete halt in maritime trade to and from Iran.
Warning of wider war risk
Former US State Department official William Lawrence warned of a “catastrophic scenario”, saying the region is entering cycles of escalation that could spiral into a direct international confrontation or even a third world war.
Iran asserts control over Strait of Hormuz
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said the Strait of Hormuz is under Iran’s control, stressing that no other country would be able to pass through it if Iran itself is prevented from doing so.
Iran says talks with US remain stalled
Iranian state television, quoting a deputy foreign minister, said messages had been exchanged with Washington but accused the US of insisting on “excessive demands”. Officials said negotiations had not yet reached a stage that would allow direct talks.
Netanyahu signals continued operations in Lebanon
Benjamin Netanyahu said Israeli forces would continue operations in a “security zone” in southern Lebanon to counter threats.
Israeli Army Radio reported the establishment of a “yellow line” covering 55 villages, with residents barred from returning. Hezbollah Secretary General Naim Qassem said any ceasefire must be mutual.
Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said he had discussed with President Joseph Aoun the country’s readiness for negotiations and implementation of government decisions.
Revolutionary Guard issues maritime warning
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard warned ships not to move in the Persian Gulf and Sea of Oman, saying vessels violating instructions would be targeted.
It added that approaching the Strait of Hormuz would be considered cooperation with hostile forces and said US statements on the waterway “are worthless”. Officials noted that non-military vessels were allowed to pass on Friday but accused adversaries of violating ceasefire terms.
Qalibaf claims Iran battlefield gains
Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said Iran had made significant advances in air defence between recent conflicts. He claimed the US called for a ceasefire because Iran had prevailed on the battlefield and said Washington failed to achieve regime change or dismantle Iran’s missile capabilities.
He added that Iran does not trust its adversaries and warned that any further misstep would be met with a prepared military response.
UN condemns attack on peacekeepers
Antonio Guterres condemned an attack that killed a French peacekeeper serving with United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon and wounded three others.
An initial UNIFIL assessment said the soldiers were fired upon by non-state actors believed to be affiliated with Hezbollah. The UN called on all sides to ensure the safety of its personnel.
Iran cites legal right over Hormuz measures
Iran’s Foreign Ministry said international law does not prevent it from taking measures to stop the use of the Strait of Hormuz for military aggression against the country.
US officials warn of Iran’s missile capacity
According to The New York Times, US officials believe Iran retains more than 60 percent of its missile launchers, enabling it to disrupt maritime traffic.
Israeli report warns of escalation risk
Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth reported that closing the Strait of Hormuz would increase the likelihood of renewed regional conflict.
Iran reports war casualties
Iran’s Foundation of Martyrs and Veterans Affairs, quoted by ISNA, said the conflict with the US and Israel has killed 3,468 people in the country.
