Writer and researcher Nick Mottern says Washington’s recent strikes on Iranian oil vessels reflect a deepening sense of military and political desperation.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry says the US attack on its Larak Island was a violation of national sovereignty, territorial integrity and the UN Charter.

The Iranian Army says it has targeted US military helicopters and personnel stationed at al-Minhad Air Base in the UAE with dozens of kamikaze drones in reprisal for a fatal US strike on Larak Island in the Strait of Hormuz.

The IRGC says the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed unless the United States halts its blockade and accepts Tehran’s conditions for implementing a recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

Less than a month after Washington and Tehran signed a memorandum of understanding meant to end their war and establish a framework for wider negotiations, US President Donald Trump has declared the deal “over”.

As the war between the United States and Iran escalates, economist Steve Hanke argues that Washington's strategy is irrational, economically self-defeating, and largely driven by Israeli interests.

Here are Pres TV's latest top stories at 09:00 GMT, on August 23, 2026.