Iran under US pressure on Strait of Hormuz as Israeli covert regime‑change plan fails

U.S. President Donald Trump warned Iran that the Strait of Hormuz would be reopened only through a deal or a military strike, saying a “hard hit” would follow if Tehran does not negotiate. The United States continues its naval blockade and sanctions that restrict Iran’s oil exports, while Iran views control of the strait as its main leverage against Washington and Israel.

In Israel, Mossad chief Gadi Goffman dismissed two senior officers involved in a covert operation aimed at replacing Iran’s leadership. The plan, which combined Kurdish ground forces with extensive U.S. and Israeli air support, was presented to Trump but never materialised. The internal shake‑up follows the operation’s failure and highlights the broader challenges faced by Israel and the United States in confronting Iran.