Morning update

Good morning Middle East Eye readers,

The situation across the Middle East is becoming more volatile, with rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and renewed pressure along the Israel-Lebanon border. Donald Trump’s maritime mission is moving ahead with added military support, while Tehran is warning of a “crushing” response to any US actions it sees as a breach.

At the same time, Israel has raised its alert level and is preparing for a possible expansion of operations, adding to concerns that the fragile ceasefire could give way to wider conflict.

Here are the key developments that took place in the past hours:

• Israel raises alert level, officials say awaiting US “green light” to resume war

• Iran warns of “crushing” response over US actions in the Strait of Hormuz

• US deploys jets and helicopters to support escort operation under “Project Freedom”

• Israeli military orders evacuations in two towns in southern Lebanon

• Iran says US attack on cargo boats in Hormuz killed five civilians

• Hezbollah says it struck an Israeli Merkava tank in southern Lebanon

• Energy prices surge while stocks and gold fall amid escalating tensions

• US warns its citizens in the UAE of “potential aerial threats”

• Canada, UK, France and others condemn attacks on UAE, call for de-escalation

• Diplomatic contacts continue, with Turkey and Qatar discussing US-Iran talks