US hits Iran, resumes Hormuz blockade

IANS | July 15, 2026 7:53 AM

Washington, July 15 (IANS) The United States carried out a seven-hour wave of strikes against dozens of Iranian military targets near the Strait of Hormuz and along Iran’s coast hours after resuming a naval blockade of vessels travelling to and from Iranian ports, the US Central Command said.

Iran sought deal during US strikes: Trump

IANS | July 15, 2026 7:51 AM

Washington, July 15 (IANS) Iranian representatives contacted the United States about an hour before President Donald Trump’s Fox News interview and indicated that Tehran wanted an agreement, Trump said, as American strikes continued for a third consecutive night.

Trump spares Iran oil, eyes ground campaign

IANS | July 15, 2026 7:47 AM

Washington, July 15 (IANS) US President Donald Trump said he ordered American forces to spare oil installations on Iran’s Kharg Island because of their importance to the global economy, while refusing to rule out a ground campaign or the eventual seizure of the strategic export hub.

China’s economic grip alarms US Congress

IANS | July 15, 2026 7:21 AM

Washington, July 15 (IANS) US lawmakers and experts have warned that China’s grip over critical minerals, infrastructure and advanced manufacturing poses a serious economic security threat, while cautioning that Washington’s sweeping tariffs could weaken alliances needed to compete with Beijing.

US steps up AI, minerals race against China

IANS | July 15, 2026 7:10 AM

Washington, July 15 (IANS) The Trump administration has received 78 applications for its new artificial intelligence export programme and signed more than 28 critical minerals agreements as Washington intensifies efforts to compete with China in technology and strategic supply chains.