Middle East Crisis: Diplomacy, Tanker Strikes and an Oil Slick Near Kharg

The latest developments in the Middle East conflict include urgent diplomatic efforts, renewed military strikes, and an environmental incident that could affect regional shipping and trade.

Trump Awaits Iran Response — US President Donald Trump told reporters on Friday evening that he expected a reply from Iran to his most recent proposal for a deal to end the conflict "by tonight." Officials have not yet confirmed any response.

Kharg Oil Slick — Satellite imagery appears to show an oil slick spreading off Kharg Island, a major Iranian oil export terminal. The Conflict and Environment Observatory said the original source of the spill is unclear, the slick is drifting south, and it may not be addressed effectively without coordinated response efforts.

Qatar Prime Minister Seeks Renewed Talks — Qatar’s prime minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, met in Washington with U.S. officials, including J.D. Vance, to press for Pakistani-led diplomatic efforts to secure a lasting peace amid a fragile ceasefire.

Hezbollah Strikes Israeli Bases — Hezbollah said it launched missiles and drones at Israeli military bases in retaliation for a recent strike on Beirut and ongoing operations in southern Lebanon. Lebanese authorities reported 11 people were killed in the south on Friday amid continued cross-border tensions.

US Jet Disables Iranian-Flagged Tankers — U.S. Central Command said an F/A-18 Super Hornet fired precision munitions into the smokestacks of two Iranian-flagged tankers trying to breach an American blockade of Iranian ports, disabling the vessels and preventing them from entering. The U.S. says it has now stopped four ships since the blockade began on April 13. Footage of the strikes was posted on X by U.S. Central Command.

Call For European Support Over Hormuz — U.S. Senator Marco Rubio urged European governments to help secure the Strait of Hormuz, warning of the consequences if Iran were to assert control over that international waterway. Rubio made the comments after meeting Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

Hormuz Compared To Strategic Leverage — Mohammad Mokhber, described in reports as an adviser close to Iran’s leadership, called control of the Strait of Hormuz "an opportunity as precious as an atomic bomb," highlighting how a chokepoint can influence global energy markets and trade with a single decision.

Saudi Restrictions On Specific U.S. Operation — Two Saudi sources told AFP that Riyadh prohibited the United States from using Saudi airspace and bases for a brief U.S. operation aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The sources said U.S. access to Saudi facilities will continue for other uses.

EU Moves To Protect Consumers And Fuel Supply — The European Union ruled that airlines may not add fuel surcharges to tickets after purchase amid rising jet-fuel prices and supply concerns tied to the conflict. The EU Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) also authorized the use of Jet A (a U.S.-produced aviation fuel) for return flights from the United States to Europe.

UAE Reports Injuries After Attack — The United Arab Emirates reported that a missile and drone attack, which authorities attributed to Iran, caused three people to suffer moderate injuries.

Outlook: The situation remains fluid. Diplomatic efforts are active but fragile; military incidents risk escalation; and the oil slick near Kharg Island adds an environmental and commercial dimension to growing regional instability.