Arabian Sea
Iran has developed plans to strike undersea cables in the event of a new attack by the US and Israel. Less than 1% of the world's transmission capacity passes through the Strait of Hormuz.
The US, Iran, and Oman are nearing a 60-day interim agreement to restore operations in the Strait of Hormuz. The deal provides for the separation of vessel traffic and mine clearance, but requires Iran's approval.
Rising prices and demand due to the conflict in the Middle East have record-high increased Russia's profits. Ukrainian drone strikes on ports are hindering budget replenishment.
The Trump administration is strengthening its troop contingent to pressure Iran. The aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush and paratroopers of the 82nd Airborne Division are heading to the region.
In Ukraine, fuel prices rose by 5% due to news of oil supply problems from the Persian Gulf. However, according to an analyst, the price increase is unlikely to continue.
Iran launched strikes on US military bases in Bahrain, Qatar, UAE, and Kuwait, as well as on the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier. This was in response to a joint US-Israeli military operation against Iran.
The US aircraft carrier Gerald Ford passed through the Strait of Gibraltar on February 20, preparing for possible strikes on Iran. It may join the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group to increase pressure on Tehran.
The eruption of the Hayli-Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia has subsided, causing destruction in villages in the Afar region and widespread disruptions to air traffic. Residents complained of coughing, and livestock could not find clean water due to volcanic ash.
Iranian military loaded naval mines onto vessels in the Persian Gulf last month after Israeli strikes, raising concerns in Washington about a possible blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. This preparation could indicate Tehran's serious intentions to block one of the world's busiest maritime routes.
US President Donald Trump approved plans to attack Iran, but is delaying its implementation, observing Tehran's reaction to its nuclear program. This concerns the uranium enrichment plant in Fordow.