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Trump Nears Iran Attack Decision as Oil Prices Plunge

7/26/2026

24 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Trump Near Attack

U.S. President Donald Trump said Thursday he is close to deciding an attack on Iran.
U.S. Central Command carried out a 13th night of strikes as the naval blockade cut Iranian oil loadings to zero, sending Brent crude down 4% to $96.78 a barrel and WTI to $89.31 a barrel.
Houthi rebels hit two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea, igniting one.

Summary

Arab Officials Frustrated

Arab officials told NBC News they are “growing frustrated” with threats and “have no clue where this is going.”
Michael Knights, Horizon Engage director, said the United States and Iran can sustain the conflict for months.
Former U.S. ambassador Michael Ratney warned Iran does not want endless escalation because it would damage its infrastructure.
The fighting has already killed 18 United States soldiers, including four in the most recent week.

History

Historical Context

After Iranian students seized the U.S. embassy in Tehran on 4 Nov 1979, President Jimmy Carter ordered the 24 April 1980 Operation Eagle Claw to rescue 52 hostages. The mission aborted when only five helicopters remained operational, and a crash killed eight U.S. servicemen. The failure deepened U.S.–Iran hostility and still shapes American caution toward Iranian leverage.

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Trump Near Attack

U.S. President Donald Trump said Thursday he is close to deciding an attack on Iran.
U.S. Central Command carried out a 13th night of strikes as the naval blockade cut Iranian oil loadings to zero, sending Brent crude down 4% to $96.78 a barrel and WTI to $89.31 a barrel.
Houthi rebels hit two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea, igniting one.

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