US-Israel war on Iran: Kuwait intercepts drones, missiles; Trump urges critics to back off as Iran nuclear talks progress; Latest updates

Iran slams EU statement as hypocritical, defends strikes as self-defense

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei rejected an EU statement blaming Iran for recent strikes, calling it selectively outraged and reckless.

He argued that Iran’s actions were a lawful exercise of self-defense against US attacks launched from bases in neighboring countries, and accused the EU of appeasing aggressors while holding their targets responsible.

Baqaei called on the EU to uphold the UN Charter and international law, warning that states have a legal obligation not to allow their territory to be used to attack other nations.

Macron presses Gulf and Egyptian leaders for swift US-Iran deal and Hormuz reopening

French President Macron met with the leaders of Saudi Arabia, Oman, the UAE, and Egypt, delivering a consistent message to each: a US-Iran agreement must be reached urgently and the Strait of Hormuz reopened immediately without conditions.

He called for a ceasefire first, followed by broader negotiations covering Iran’s nuclear and ballistic programs and regional stability.

France offered to contribute through its multinational maritime mission, nuclear expertise, and support for a regional security framework. Macron also called for an immediate end to escalating hostilities in southern Lebanon, urging all parties to lay down arms and respect Lebanese sovereignty.

US launches retaliatory strikes on Iranian radar and drone sites

US Central Command carried out targeted strikes on Iranian radar, command-and-control, and drone facilities in Goruk and Qeshm Island over the weekend, in direct response to Iran shooting down an American drone over international waters.

US fighter aircraft destroyed Iranian air defenses, a ground control station, and two attack drones that threatened regional shipping.

No US personnel were injured, and CENTCOM stated it will continue responding to Iranian aggression amid the ongoing ceasefire.

Kuwait air defenses intercept missile and drone attacks

The Kuwaiti military confirmed its air defense systems are actively engaging hostile missile and drone attacks, reassuring the public that any explosion sounds are from interceptions rather than strikes. Authorities urged citizens to follow official safety instructions.

Trump urges critics to back off as Iran nuclear talks progress

US President Donald Trump expressed confidence that a deal with Iran is within reach and would benefit the US, while calling on political opponents – including some Republicans – to stop publicly second-guessing his negotiating approach, arguing that the constant criticism makes his job harder.

He asked them to be patient and trust the process via a post on Truth Social.