Tensions between Iran and the United States remain highly sensitive as new statements from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps signal continued military readiness along Iran's southern coastline. The IRGC has warned that any renewed conflict could turn key coastal regions into a "graveyard for aggressors", underscoring Tehran's hardened stance while maintaining that the risk of full-scale war remains low for now. At the same time, political developments in Washington are adding to global uncertainty. Donald Trump is reportedly convening his cabinet as discussions continue around possible diplomatic pathways to de-escalate tensions with Iran. WATCH

Russia has issued a chilling warning to foreign nationals, diplomats and international staff in Kyiv, urging them to leave the Ukrainian capital immediately as Moscow threatens a new wave of “systematic strikes” targeting command centres, military hubs and drone production facilities. The Russian Foreign Ministry said strikes would continue across Kyiv and warned civilians to stay away from government and military buildings. Reports also suggest Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov pressed US Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding the safety of embassy staff in the city. Ukraine reacted furiously to the warning, calling it “shameless blackmail” and accusing Moscow of trying to intimidate the diplomatic community. The threat comes just after one of the biggest Russian assaults on Kyiv in recent months, during which President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russia launched 90 missiles and 600 drones.