US-sanctioned empty tankers continue reaching Iran-linked routes

The United States’ 2026 counterterrorism strategy identifies Iran as a leading state sponsor of terrorism and outlines sustained efforts to disrupt militant networks, financing channels and regional proxy groups, according to the document released on Wednesday.

The strategy also highlights the use of intelligence, law enforcement, cyber and, where necessary, kinetic tools against terrorist threats, while stressing cooperation with international partners and attention to maritime security risks in strategic waterways including the Strait of Hormuz.

The United States will press allies to strengthen counterterrorism cooperation under a new strategy signed by President Donald Trump, focusing on threats including Iran and maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, CBS News reported on Wednesday.

According to report, White House counterterrorism director Sebastian Gorka said Washington expects partner countries to take on a greater role in addressing security threats, including protecting shipping lanes and countering militant activity, adding that the US does not see itself as a “global police officer.”

The United States is demanding that Iran hand over all of its enriched nuclear material, not just portions at higher enrichment levels, according to a Wall Street Journal cited by US figures.

US officials have reportedly outlined sweeping demands in discussions referenced by The Wall Street Journal, including the dismantling of Iran’s nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, as well as the transfer of all enriched nuclear material. The reported conditions also include strict limits on Iran’s nuclear activities, long-term or permanent restrictions on enrichment, and a verification regime involving inspections and penalties for violations, according to the report.

A senior commander in Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy said on Wednesday any attack on Iran would be met with what he called “unexpected plans,” according to remarks carried by IRGC affiliated Fars News

"The enemy's potential attack will be met with a plan beyond its calculations," Political Deputy of the IRGC Navy said. "Trump failed in all fronts, including regime change, uranium theft, and dominance over the Strait of Hormuz."

Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf appeared to mock recent US messaging, writing on X on Wednesday that “Operation Trust Me Bro failed” and referring to “Operation Fauxios” in a post that used sarcastic language.