Late July 2026: Tensions Rise Between the U.S. and Iran

President Donald Trump has met with top aides and cabinet members to discuss whether to intensify military strikes on Iran. The White House discussions came in late July 2026, shortly before a scheduled visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Mr. Netanyahu is set to meet the president on July 28 in Washington, and the meeting is expected to touch on security and regional tensions.

Since early July, the United States and Iran have exchanged attacks across the region. U.S. forces have struck air defenses, radar sites and other military targets in southern Iran, and commanders have said they acted to protect ships and bases. Iran has fired missiles, drones and used small boats against vessels in the Strait of Hormuz and at foreign bases. The United Nations and other international actors have urged maximum restraint to prevent a wider war. Earlier in July, three merchant ships were attacked and the U.S. restricted Iran’s ability to sell oil.