The buildup of U.S. troops in the Middle East has raised speculation of a possible ground attack on Iranian soil, with eyes on the vital oil depot on Kharg Island. President Trump has railed against Tehran for closing the Strait of Hormuz — a vital shipping lane through which one-fifth of the world’s crude

Speaking in an interview on The Briefing with Jen Psaki on Friday, Kerry said he had participated in multiple discussions with Netanyahu, noting:

As tensions escalate between the U.S. and Iran, President Trump's ultimatum demands the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz by the approaching deadline, raising fears of significant repercussions.

U.S. President Donald Trump pulls back on his threats to launch devastating strikes on Iran, swerving to deescalate the war less than two hours before the deadline he set for Tehran to capitulate.

U.S. President Donald Trump said late Tuesday he’s pulling back on his threats to launch devastating strikes on Iran, swerving to deescalate the war less than two hours before the deadline he set for Tehran to capitulate or else a “whole civilization will die tonight.

US and Israeli strikes hit Tehran, Kharg Island, and key bridges as Trump’s 8 p.m. deadline expired with Iran rejecting a cease-fire and the IRGC threatening Gulf states.

U.S. President Donald ⁠Trump ⁠warned on Monday that ⁠any Iranian "fast-attack" ships that go near a ​U.S. maritime blockade on Iran would be eliminated. Trump made the threat ‌shortly after the U.S. blockade ‌on vessels entering and departing Iran had been due ⁠to ⁠come into effect at 1400 GMT on Monday.

It was the highest level meeting between the two sides since the 1979 revolution in Iran, with talks running through the night. The setting was a small purpose-built capital not used to high-stakes global diplomacy.