Trump Vows 2-3 More Weeks of Bombing Iran, Oil Hits $109

Trump announced a 2-3 week escalation of strikes on Iran.

“Oil prices jump and shares drop after Trump threatens more Iran strikes Oil prices started climbing again after US President Donald Trump reiterated threats to hit Iran "extremely hard" in the coming weeks and failed to give concrete details on how the war will end”

BBC

Oil prices surged more than 7%, with Brent crude rising above $109 a barrel.

BBC

Trump offered no clear plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

Reuters reported that some 40 countries were exploring ways to restore freedom of navigation.

European leaders expressed growing frustration with Trump.

Macron criticized Trump for repeatedly shifting his goals and berating NATO.

Beaumont Enterprise

Britain hosted a virtual meeting of about 40 nations focused on diplomatic and economic tools.

The Japan Nikkei closed down 2.4% and South Korea's Kospi slid 4.7%.

“What to know about the Iran war today: - President Trump repeated his assertions Wednesday night that and Iran's offensive capabilities "essentially decimated" after more than a month of war”

CBS News

Trump said the war was close to completion but gave no details on reopening the strait.

Iran's armed forces dismissed Trump's assessment as incomplete.

Trump's attempt to pressure NATO backfired.

EU foreign policy chief Borrell said Iran had outsmarted the alliance.

DW

Britain and France sought diplomatic and civilian-economic resources.