US-Israel-Iran War Latest Update: Fresh developments in the ongoing Middle East crisis have increased global concerns after reports claimed the United States may temporarily ease oil sanctions on Iran during ongoing diplomatic negotiations.
At the same time, Pakistan reportedly deployed thousands of troops and fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, while Iran announced a new authority to manage operations in the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz.
The developments come amid rising fears of broader regional instability involving Iran, Gulf nations, Israel and Western powers.
US Reportedly Offers Temporary Oil Sanctions Waiver
According to reports citing sources close to Iran’s negotiating team, Washington’s latest proposal includes a willingness to suspend restrictions on Iranian oil exports during the negotiation process.
The source told Iranian news agency Tasnim News Agency that the sanctions waiver would involve a temporary suspension rather than permanent removal. Iran has reportedly continued to insist that full sanctions removal must form part of any final agreement with Washington.
Officials said the proposal specifically involves suspending sanctions imposed by the US Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) until a broader deal is reached. The reported development marks a possible shift in negotiations as both sides attempt to avoid further escalation in the region.
Pakistan Deploys Troops and Fighter Jets to Saudi Arabia
Meanwhile, reports claimed Pakistan has deployed around 8,000 troops, fighter aircraft and air defence systems to Saudi Arabia under an existing mutual defence agreement.
Security and government sources reportedly described the deployment as a combat-ready force intended to support Saudi Arabia if regional tensions worsen.
The move highlights increasing military coordination between Islamabad and Riyadh during a highly volatile period in the Gulf. Pakistan has also continued diplomatic efforts aimed at mediation in the broader Iran conflict.
Germany Warns Iran Over Strait of Hormuz
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz urged Iran to ensure unrestricted passage through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes.
In a statement posted on X, Merz called on Tehran to engage seriously with the United States and avoid threats against neighbouring countries.
“There must be no further escalation of violence,” Merz said.
Die erneuten iranischen Luftschläge gegen die Vereinigten Arabischen Emirate und weitere Partner verurteilen wir scharf. Angriffe auf Nuklearanlagen sind eine Bedrohung für die Sicherheit der Menschen in der gesamten Region. Es darf zu keiner weiteren Gewalteskalation kommen.
— Bundeskanzler Friedrich Merz (@bundeskanzler) May 18, 2026
He also criticised recent Iranian airstrikes targeting the United Arab Emirates and warned about the dangers surrounding military action near nuclear facilities.
Iran Announces New Strait of Hormuz Authority
Iran’s Supreme National Security Council has announced the creation of a new body called the Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA). The organisation will reportedly oversee operations linked to the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran has increased control measures amid regional tensions.
According to Iranian authorities, the PGSA will issue “real-time updates on the #Hormuz_Strait operations and latest developments.”
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most strategically important waterways because a large portion of global oil shipments passes through the narrow maritime corridor.
Any disruption in the route could significantly impact global energy prices and international trade.
US-Israel-Iran War Latest Update: Why the Strait of Hormuz Matters Globally?
The Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea.
Energy analysts consider it one of the world’s most critical oil transit chokepoints because major producers, including Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Kuwait and the UAE, rely heavily on the route for exports.
Growing military tensions around the strait have already triggered international concern over possible disruptions to oil supply chains.
