Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced that recent Israeli strikes have significantly impacted Iran’s industrial capacity, claiming that roughly 70% of the country’s steel production has been destroyed. In a video message shared on social media, Netanyahu described the development as a “tremendous achievement,” emphasizing that it weakens the financial and military capabilities of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

He highlighted close coordination with Donald Trump and cooperation between the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the United States military, signaling continued joint efforts. Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to ongoing operations, stating that actions would persist against Iranian-linked forces, including Hezbollah, as part of broader regional security objectives.

Meanwhile, tensions in the Gulf region have drawn attention following conflicting claims over attacks on infrastructure in Kuwait. Iran’s IRGC accused Israel of targeting a water desalination facility and a power plant, allegations that emerged after reports suggested Iran had been responsible. The IDF responded by stating it was “not aware” of such an operation.

In its official statement, the IRGC condemned the reported incidents and urged Middle Eastern nations to remain vigilant against what it described as efforts by the United States and Israel to destabilize the region. Notably, the statement did not reference a separate report involving a Kuwaiti oil refinery that was also said to have been targeted.

Earlier in the week, Iranian officials had similarly accused Israel of striking a desalination facility in Kuwait. Ebrahim Zolfaghari, spokesperson for Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya military command, described the alleged attack as “brutal aggression” and suggested it was an attempt to shift blame onto Iran.

The accusations followed an overnight incident at a Kuwaiti power and desalination plant that reportedly resulted in the death of an Indian worker and caused structural damage. Zolfaghari called on regional governments to remain alert, framing the situation as part of broader geopolitical maneuvering.

Donald Trump is set to deliver a high-stakes primetime address on the ongoing conflict with Iran, as global audiences await clarity on whether the war is nearing resolution or heading toward further escalation.

The speech comes at a pivotal moment, with the administration signalling that no major announcement may be forthcoming, even as speculation grows about a potential shift in strategy. Trump’s approach—often marked by unpredictability and limited disclosure beyond a close inner circle—has left both allies and adversaries uncertain about the next phase of the conflict.

Domestically, pressure is mounting. Public opinion in the United States has increasingly turned against prolonged military involvement. Recent polling indicates that a significant majority of Americans favour a swift conclusion to the war, even if key military objectives remain unmet.

Economic concerns are also intensifying, particularly with rising fuel prices. Petrol costs have surged past $4 per gallon, complicating a key political narrative for Trump, who previously highlighted lower energy prices as a measure of economic success.

According to Imran Bayoumi of the Atlantic Council, the combination of domestic opposition and economic strain presents a growing political challenge, especially with midterm elections on the horizon.

Trump’s messaging on the conflict’s trajectory has shifted repeatedly. He has moved from calls for Iran’s “unconditional surrender” to suggesting a possible negotiated outcome, and more recently indicated the war could conclude within “two to three weeks.” In a separate statement, he claimed Iran had sought a ceasefire, though he tied any consideration of that request to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

The White House has indicated the address will highlight military achievements, including efforts to weaken Iran’s naval forces, missile systems, and nuclear capabilities.

As the speech approaches, attention remains focused on whether Trump will outline a clear endgame—or continue to keep the path forward deliberately ambiguous.

Large-scale “No Kings” protests have erupted across the United States, with demonstrators rallying against policies introduced by President Donald Trump during his current term in office.

Organisers say the demonstrations—taking place in major cities including New York City, Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles—are aimed at opposing issues such as the war involving Iran, stricter federal immigration enforcement, and the rising cost of living.

Crowds have already gathered in Washington, where protesters marched in from nearby Arlington and assembled at landmarks including the Lincoln Memorial and the National Mall.

The rallies mark the third iteration of the “No Kings” movement, which organisers say has previously drawn millions nationwide. Demonstrators carried signs and effigies depicting Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and other administration figures, calling for their removal from office.

Organisers framed the protests as a response to what they describe as an expansion of presidential powers since Trump returned to the White House in January, including the use of executive orders and the deployment of National Guard troops to cities despite objections from some state leaders.

Trump allies have criticised the demonstrations, labelling them a “hate America rally” and alleging links between participants and far-left groups such as Antifa. Protest organisers, however, insist the events are peaceful in nature.

The protests also come amid heightened tensions following controversial incidents earlier this year, including the fatal shooting of two civilians by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis, which sparked widespread outrage.

Despite the criticism, Trump has defended his actions, arguing they are necessary to address national challenges. He has rejected claims that he is governing like a monarch, dismissing such accusations as exaggerated.