In a bold statement, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth declared that the U.S. military will persistently engage Iranian-backed Houthis until they cease their aggressive actions against U.S. vessels. Following President Trump’s orders for airstrikes, Hegseth emphasized the importance of freedom of navigation and accountability for Iran's support of the Houthis.
At the EU Summit, Chancellor Olaf Scholz expresses skepticism towards using French nuclear weapons for European defense, advocating instead for NATO's existing deterrence strategy. Meanwhile, tensions rise as Russia dismisses claims of aggression.