The latest developments in the Middle East conflict show escalating violence and growing economic and diplomatic tensions. Lebanon’s Health Ministry reported that eight people, including civil defense workers, were killed in an Israeli strike on the country’s south, with two soldiers injured. The attack occurred despite a fragile ceasefire in place since April 17. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump may reject Iran’s proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, pushing crude oil prices higher and causing stock market declines.

In Washington, Britain’s King Charles III urged the United States to stand firmly with Western allies during what he described as a time of deep uncertainty. Trump also criticized German Chancellor Friedrich Merz over his comments on the Iran conflict. In Iraq, U.S. defenses intercepted drones over Baghdad’s Green Zone, marking the first such incident since the April 8 ceasefire. Israel claimed to have destroyed a major Hezbollah tunnel network in southern Lebanon.

Amid the turmoil, the United Arab Emirates announced its withdrawal from OPEC and OPEC+ to prioritize national interests, a move that coincides with rising global energy prices and ongoing regional instability.