According to Iran’s state media, a newly improved ballistic missile, the solid-fueled Qassem Basir, signifies a shift in Iran’s defense doctrine towards preemptive action against perceived threats. The report, citing comments from Mohsen Rezaei, head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, claims the missile has been tested against a U.S. warship, although it is unclear if this refers to the missile described. The missile is said to possess greater range, accuracy, and a half-ton warhead, marking a “turning point” in Iran’s defense strategy.

The U.S. responded to recent escalations, including the alleged launch of ballistic missiles at U.S. warships, by striking three Iranian oil tankers. The White House emphasized that the Strait of Hormuz remains an open international waterway, rejecting Iran’s plans for an “exclusion zone” near the strait. The U.S. also stated that it has cleared the strait of mines and that tanker traffic to non-Iranian ports will increase, while maintaining a naval blockade on Iranian ports to limit oil exports. Meanwhile, regional leaders, including a diplomatic adviser to the UAE president and the secretary-general of the Arab League, have expressed frustration and condemnation over Iran’s attacks on shipping and Gulf nations, emphasizing that maritime corridors should not be used as bargaining chips.

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