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Donald Trump issued a stark warning that “a whole civilization will die tonight” if Iran does not reopen the Strait of Hormuz by a looming deadline. This threat follows reports of “several strikes” on Kharg Island, an Iranian oil export hub, which a US official attributed to American military action. The Israel Defense Forces also announced a significant wave of strikes targeting Iranian regime infrastructure. In response, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps declared an end to its “considerable restraint” in retaliating against US-Israeli actions in the region.
Three weeks into an escalating war, the U.S. is sending more warships and Marines to the region, even as President Donald Trump indicated a desire to “wind down” military operations. Iran, meanwhile, has threatened to expand its retaliatory attacks to include recreational and tourist sites globally, raising concerns about a wider conflict and its impact on global energy supplies. Despite shifting rationales for the war from the U.S. and Israel, and conflicting signals from the U.S. president, Iran’s continued attacks on energy infrastructure and maritime routes are causing significant economic disruption worldwide.
Yale historian Greg Grandin posits that President Trump’s foreign policy is destabilizing the international order established after World War II. Grandin highlights the administration’s embrace of the Monroe Doctrine, suggesting a return to a world divided into spheres of influence, particularly in Latin America. Evidence includes military actions and political interference in the region, including military build-up in the Caribbean. Grandin warns that this shift toward a more aggressive, sphere-of-influence approach increases the risk of global conflict and “brinkmanship” similar to what was seen leading up to World War II.
In his first public address, Pope Leo XIV, the 267th and first American pope, called for an immediate end to the war in Ukraine, describing the current global conflicts as a “third world war in pieces.” He also urged a ceasefire and humanitarian aid in Gaza, the release of hostages, and the return of Ukrainian children. The Pope’s appearance on the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, singing rather than reciting the traditional prayer, signaled a potentially different style of papacy.
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In this letter to *Corriere della Sera*’s editor-in-chief, Pope Francis expresses gratitude for support received during his recent illness, a time when the absurdity of war became even more apparent. He urges a renewed focus on peace and disarmament, emphasizing the power of words to build or destroy. The Pope calls for revitalized diplomacy, stronger international organizations, and a religious contribution to fostering fraternity and justice. Ultimately, he advocates for a united effort toward peace, requiring commitment, reflection, and careful communication.
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Ukraine’s former Commander-in-Chief, Valerii Zaluzhnyi, declared that World War III has begun, citing the involvement of Russia’s autocratic allies—North Korea and Iran—supplying weapons and drones, and China providing components for Russian arms. He stressed that Ukraine is not just fighting Russia, but a wider coalition, necessitating a global response to prevent the conflict’s escalation. While technological advancements are crucial for Ukraine’s survival, a decisive victory is not imminent, and Zaluzhnyi expressed concern over Europe’s preparedness for a prolonged war given limited air defense capabilities and potential depletion of resources. He concluded that while short-term military readiness exists, Europe’s capacity for a protracted war remains questionable.
Putin’s recent pronouncements that the Ukraine war is becoming global are, frankly, a bit rich. He claims the conflict, which he initiated, has been pushed into a global scenario by the West. This, of course, ignores the reality of his actions. He’s actively brought mercenaries from across the globe—Africa, the Middle East, India, Cuba—to fight on his behalf, essentially turning the war into an international affair through his own recruitment efforts. It’s a blatant disregard for the truth, a convenient narrative to deflect blame for his own aggressive actions.
The fact that he’s also enlisted North Korea in this conflict speaks volumes.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood