Iran Rejects Claims of Blocking Strait of Hormuz, Prepares for US Ground Action, Refuses Talks With US

Iran claims its drones struck the U.S. Navy’s aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and its missiles hit a U.S. oil tanker; Iran’s Foreign Minister stated that Iran is waiting for a U.S. ground invasion, expressing confidence in its ability to repel such an assault—calling it a “huge disaster” for the U.S. and asserting there is “no reason” for further negotiations. Iran’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations dismissed claims of a potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz as “baseless and absurd.” The Israeli military stated it is entering the next phase of operations, intensifying efforts to undermine Iran’s regime foundations and military capabilities. The U.S. is reportedly allocating additional resources to sustain the war for “at least 100 days, possibly until September.” Donald Trump stated he must be involved in determining Iran’s Supreme Leader, and reports indicate he is seeking Kurdish assistance for operations inside Iran. Italy stated it has no intention of joining the conflict; the United Kingdom is assisting Gulf states in defending against Iran; Qatar reported it has been attacked by Iran.