By Daily Times Reporter | July 10, 2026
The Middle East remained on edge on Friday as military escalation and diplomatic efforts unfolded simultaneously, with renewed US-Iran strikes, heightened security concerns around the Strait of Hormuz, and reports of a new alleged Iranian plot against US President Donald Trump.
Iran’s foreign minister held urgent consultations with regional counterparts following the latest American strikes, while Washington insisted that nuclear negotiations with Tehran were still continuing despite the worsening conflict.
Commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has declined sharply in recent days as shipping companies reassess security risks in one of the world’s most important energy corridors. The slowdown has raised concerns over global oil supplies and international trade flows.
In Israel, senior officials warned that the country was prepared to launch further military action against Iran if necessary. Israeli leaders said they would not hesitate to strike Iranian targets for a “third time” should they perceive an immediate threat.
Meanwhile, Iranian state media reported that a recent US strike targeted the perimeter of a nuclear facility, though officials said the main installations were not directly hit.
Trump assassination plot claims
Adding to the tensions, US media outlets reported that Israel had shared intelligence with Washington regarding a new and “specific” Iranian plot to assassinate President Donald Trump.
According to reports by CNN and The Wall Street Journal, Israeli intelligence provided fresh information concerning an alleged plan targeting the US president.
American officials have reportedly monitored ongoing threats against Trump for years, largely linked to Iran’s pledge to avenge the 2020 killing of General Qassem Soleimani, which was ordered by Trump during his first term.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Wednesday, Trump acknowledged the reports, saying he believed he remained on Iranian target lists.
“They want to take out the US leader — me. I’m on whatever list. I saw this morning I’m on every single one of their lists,” Trump said.
Khamenei laid to rest
In Iran, former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was buried in the holy city of Mashhad following state funeral ceremonies attended by senior political and military figures.
The funeral came at a time of extraordinary regional uncertainty, with Iran facing both military pressure abroad and mounting economic strain at home.
Global concerns grow
Analysts say the simultaneous continuation of military operations and nuclear diplomacy reflects the fragile balance currently shaping the crisis.
With shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, threats of additional Israeli strikes, and intelligence reports of possible assassination plots, international observers fear that any further escalation could trigger a broader regional confrontation involving multiple Middle Eastern states and global powers.
Diplomatic channels remain open, but markets and governments worldwide are closely monitoring developments as the situation continues to evolve.
