Regional powers seek off-ramp from Iran war, and other Middle East developments

Regional powers explored options to end hostilities with Iran, despite a tanker coming under attack in the Strait of Hormuz and Iran dismissing recent U.S. sanctions. A man accused of assaulting a Catholic nun in Jerusalem was acquitted due to insanity but ordered into psychiatric care. Israel's military actions in Gaza drew criticism from the U.S. broker of the ceasefire.

A tanker hit in the strategic waterway was reported, though no environmental damage was noted. Diplomatic efforts to resolve the U.S.-Iran standoff and reopen the Strait of Hormuz persisted. Pakistan reiterated its commitment to these talks, while Iran expressed dissatisfaction with the U.S. sanctions. Iran's top negotiator praised China for rejecting illegal U.S. economic policies against Tehran.