The Wall Street Journal reported that the halted transfer involved funds generated from Iraqi oil revenues, while also citing a broader pause in financial flows and security assistance following strikes on U.S. interests in Iraq by groups expressing support for Iran.

An Iraqi government official told AFP that only one shipment had failed to arrive, attributing the delay to logistical constraints and airspace closures linked to the ongoing regional conflict. A central bank official separately said dollar transfers had slowed due to flight suspensions and security concerns but stressed that Iraq maintains sufficient reserves and has not requested additional funds.

However, an Iraqi security official confirmed that Washington had suspended elements of its security cooperation, including programs tied to training and counterterrorism operations.

U.S. State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott acknowledged Iraqi efforts to respond to attacks but said that support for militia groups by some political actors was harming bilateral relations. He said the United States expects Iraq to take immediate steps to dismantle Iran-aligned factions and warned that attacks on U.S. interests would not be tolerated.

The State Department recently summoned Iraq’s ambassador in Washington to condemn attacks, including an ambush on U.S. diplomats in Baghdad on April 8. U.S. officials did not directly comment on the reported cash transfer decision, and the Treasury Department declined to respond.

Iraq has been drawn deeper into regional tensions, with Iran-backed groups carrying out rocket and drone attacks targeting U.S. diplomatic and military sites, including the embassy in Baghdad and facilities in Erbil, where coalition forces are stationed.

Most attacks have been intercepted, according to officials.The United States retains significant financial leverage over Iraq, as revenues from Iraqi oil exports are largely held at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York under arrangements established after the 2003 U.S.-led invasion that removed former leader Saddam Hussein.

According to the New York Times, the suspension of funding also affects programs supporting Iraq’s military and efforts against the Islamic State group, a cornerstone of U.S.-Iraq security cooperation since the militant group’s territorial expansion in 2014.

In a parallel diplomatic effort, Esmail Qaani, head of Iran’s Quds Force, visited Baghdad for talks with Iraqi officials and armed faction leaders aimed at addressing regional de-escalation and its implications for Iraq.

Pro-Iran armed groups announced earlier this month a temporary halt to attacks following a ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran, though tensions remain elevated across the region.

The meeting at the Permanent Joint Headquarters in northwest London is intended to advance operational planning for reopening the strategic waterway when conditions permit, following what officials described as progress at international discussions held in Paris last week.

“The task today and tomorrow is to translate diplomatic consensus into a joint plan to safeguard freedom of navigation in the Strait and support a lasting ceasefire,” Defense Minister John Healey said in a statement.

The London conference follows talks co-chaired in Paris by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron that brought together representatives from more than 40 countries to address security in the strait, a critical global shipping route.

British and French officials have emphasized that the proposed multinational force would be defensive in nature and deployed only after a durable peace agreement is reached in the region.The United States and Iran, the principal parties to the ongoing conflict, did not participate in the Paris discussions.

A two-week ceasefire between the two countries was due to expire at midnight GMT on Tuesday, but US President Donald Trump said shortly before the deadline that it would be extended to allow further negotiations.

Both Washington and Tehran have accused each other of violating the truce, while the United States has maintained a blockade of Iranian ports.Downing Street had earlier indicated that a military planning summit would take place this week without providing further details

Zelensky has conducted a series of high-level visits to Gulf and regional states, including Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Jordan and Syria, positioning Kyiv as a provider of security expertise in a region where influence has often tilted toward Russia.

Analysts say Ukraine’s battlefield experience, particularly in countering Iranian-designed drones used by Russian forces, has enabled it to offer specialized anti-drone capabilities abroad.

Ukrainian officials said more than 200 experts were deployed to multiple countries in response to escalating drone activity during the regional conflict.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga said Moscow was reacting negatively to Kyiv’s expanding ties in the Gulf, accusing Russia and Iran of spreading disinformation aimed at undermining Ukraine’s role in the region.

The diplomatic push marks a shift from 2022, when Kyiv relied heavily on Western partners for military assistance following Russia’s invasion. The proliferation of drone warfare has since allowed Ukraine to develop niche capabilities that are now in demand internationally.

While details of the security agreements remain undisclosed, analysts say Ukraine may seek financial backing from Gulf states to scale its defense technologies. Some observers suggest Kyiv could leverage these partnerships to secure investment and sustain its military innovation sector.

However, analysts caution that the outreach has yet to produce a strategic breakthrough. Many Middle Eastern states have maintained balanced relations with both Kyiv and Moscow, avoiding sanctions on Russia while positioning themselves as mediators in the conflict.

The durability of Ukraine’s expanded role may also depend on the trajectory of the U.S.-Iran ceasefire and continued demand for its defense capabilities in the region.

A NATO spokesperson described the trip as “long-planned,” with a White House official also confirming the visit, though no further details were disclosed.

The timing comes amid heightened tensions between Washington and its European partners over their limited support for U.S. actions in the Iran conflict.

Trump said he was weighing a U.S. exit from NATO after European members declined to contribute naval forces to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping lane disrupted during the war.

Speaking at a White House gathering, Trump criticized allies including France and the United Kingdom, describing NATO as ineffective and questioning its value to U.S. security interests. The visit by Rutte comes at a sensitive moment for the alliance, which has long been a cornerstone of transatlantic security since its founding in 1949.

Analysts say the rhetoric underscores deepening divisions within NATO over burden-sharing and strategic priorities, particularly in the context of the ongoing Iran war.

Trump’s remarks mark one of the most direct challenges to NATO’s cohesion in recent years, raising uncertainty about the future of U.S. commitment to the alliance as geopolitical tensions intensify.

Zelenskiy said the framework deal, signed ahead of talks with Mohammed bin Salman, establishes a basis for future contracts, joint technological development and investment between the two countries.

“We are ready to share our expertise and systems with Saudi Arabia and to work together to strengthen the protection of lives,” Zelenskiy said on Telegram, adding that Saudi capabilities were also of interest to Ukraine.

The visit comes as Kyiv reassesses its external support network in the fifth year of its war with Russia. A report by the Washington Post said the United States is weighing redirecting weapons supplies intended for Ukraine to the Middle East, where tensions linked to a conflict with Iran are straining American stockpiles.

Zelenskiy’s outreach to Gulf partners signals an effort to diversify defence cooperation and secure alternative funding and technology flows as geopolitical priorities shift.

Earlier this month, Ukraine sent more than 220 military and security experts to several Middle Eastern countries to advise on countering drone attacks targeting critical infrastructure.

According to video released by Zelenskiy’s office, the delegation included air defence specialists and officials from Ukraine’s SBU security service.

The group conducted workshops for Saudi officials, reported to the Saudi General Staff and is preparing to share operational experience in air defence.

Zelenskiy said Ukraine expects financial compensation and access to technology in exchange for providing such assistance.Drones have become a central feature of the battlefield in Ukraine’s war with Russia, prompting Kyiv to accelerate domestic production and innovation to offset Moscow’s manpower advantage.

Zelenskiy told Reuters this week that, with sufficient financing, Ukraine could produce up to 2,000 drone interceptors per day, underscoring the scale of its defence manufacturing ambitions.

The agreement with Saudi Arabia reflects a convergence of interests as Middle Eastern states seek to strengthen air defence capabilities against drone threats, while Ukraine looks to leverage its battlefield experience for strategic and economic gains.

Speaking at the Reagan National Defense Forum in Simi Valley, he stressed that every military action must align with national security priorities and legal standards.

Hegseth said he stood by the original decision to neutralize the vessel due to intelligence indicating a significant drug-trafficking threat.

He emphasized that combating illegal narcotics remains a key priority for safeguarding American communities and strengthening regional stability.

He explained that he viewed the initial strike and then left to attend a scheduled meeting, underscoring that operational command remained in the hands of on-site military leadership.

The defense chief framed the issue as part of ongoing efforts to modernize command structures and strengthen real-time communication during maritime operations.

Officials from the administration later clarified that the additional action taken that day resulted from the field commander’s tactical assessment of potential narcotics remaining on the wreckage.

They noted that rapid decisions in dynamic maritime environments are driven by the need to prevent illicit substances from reaching criminal networks.

Hegseth reaffirmed that the matter is under internal review, including discussions about whether the full video of the operation will be released.

He highlighted the importance of responsible transparency, ensuring that sensitive material is handled in a way that reinforces public trust and protects military personnel.

The September 2 action was the first in a series of maritime counter-narcotics operations conducted across the southern Caribbean and eastern Pacific.

These missions form part of a broader strategic initiative to disrupt transnational criminal organizations that threaten regional security.

Officials cited the campaign as a significant effort to safeguard coastal communities, strengthen international cooperation and reduce the movement of illegal drugs into the United States.

They emphasized that maritime interdiction requires precision, discipline and close adherence to legal and ethical frameworks.

The imagery shown to lawmakers raised questions about the conduct of the second strike, prompting discussion about the standards set out in the Defense Department’s Law of War Manual.

The manual outlines clear protections for individuals who are incapacitated or shipwrecked and not engaged in hostilities.

Hegseth acknowledged the importance of these legal safeguards and said that reviews are an essential part of ensuring military actions remain aligned with U.S. values.

He stressed that the military’s credibility is strengthened when policies prioritize humanitarian principles alongside national defense.

Administration officials framed the broader anti-drug strategy as part of an international effort to curb dangerous cartels and protect civilian populations affected by illicit trafficking routes.

They highlighted ongoing diplomatic, intelligence and enforcement partnerships with regional governments aiming to improve maritime security.

The defense secretary noted that conversations with lawmakers and oversight bodies are a normal part of democratic governance.

He welcomed constructive dialogue as a way to refine operational protocols and support service members who carry out demanding missions.

Hegseth expressed appreciation for the men and women of the armed forces whose work forms a central part of national security.

He emphasized that their commitment to lawful conduct and operational excellence remains a cornerstone of U.S. defense policy.

As reviews continue, officials reaffirmed that the United States remains dedicated to transparency, accountability and strong cooperation with international partners in combating transnational threats.

They added that upcoming evaluations will help shape future operations to ensure they align with both strategic priorities and humanitarian obligations.

The message was delivered in Riyadh to Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed bin Abdulkarim Al-Khuraiji by Bahraini Ambassador Sheikh Ali bin Abdulrahman Al-Khalifa, reflecting the warm, respectful and forward-looking relationship between the two brotherly nations.

The meeting celebrated the continued strength of Saudi-Bahraini ties, emphasizing their mutual determination to build on decades of collaboration, unity and shared vision for the Gulf region’s growth, security and prosperity.

Both officials engaged in meaningful discussions highlighting successful diplomatic exchanges, ongoing joint initiatives and new opportunities for bilateral development that align with each country’s long-term national goals.

Saudi Arabia and Bahrain acknowledged the exceptional progress made through consistent cooperation, noting that the foundation of their relationship is built on trust, close coordination and a commitment to regional stability and advancement.

The message conveyed from Bahrain’s leadership reinforced the importance of maintaining an active, dynamic partnership that benefits their citizens and sets a positive example for cooperation across the Gulf.

During the discussions, both sides explored ways to expand strategic collaboration in areas such as economic investment, security coordination, trade development, digital innovation and cultural exchange.

They emphasized that comprehensive cooperation remains crucial for shaping a stronger, more resilient and interconnected region capable of meeting global challenges with unity and confidence.

The positive diplomatic engagement highlighted the value both nations place on their shared history and the promising future they are committed to building together in pursuit of stability, development and progress.

Saudi Arabia expressed appreciation for Bahrain’s dedication to strengthening relations, further confirming that aligned visions and mutual respect underpin the success of their ongoing partnership.

Economic cooperation took center stage as officials explored enhanced investment flows, large-scale development projects and business opportunities that create sustainable growth and align with the economic transformation plans of both nations.

By integrating economic ambitions and sharing expertise, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain aim to accelerate innovation, attract global investments and improve the well-being of their people through future-focused initiatives.

The meeting also underlined the importance of continued coordination within the Gulf Cooperation Council, which remains an essential platform for building unity, supporting shared priorities and reinforcing collective security across the region.

Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to contributing actively to GCC goals, emphasizing the importance of solidarity in achieving long-term regional strength.

The exchange of the message between leaders highlighted the spirit of fraternity that defines Saudi-Bahraini relations, representing not only diplomatic communication but a reaffirmation of shared cultural values, strategic alignment and genuine friendship.

Officials expressed confidence that renewed communication between leaders will encourage more collaboration, inspire new partnerships and support peace, cooperation and prosperity throughout the Gulf.

Saudi Arabia and Bahrain continue to serve as key pillars of regional stability, demonstrating how strong diplomatic relationships can promote economic growth, strengthen resilience and ensure security in an increasingly interconnected world.

Their commitment to mutual development plays a vital role in shaping the Gulf region’s future, with cooperation seen as essential for navigating global advancements and challenges.

As both countries pursue ambitious national visions, the reinforcement of diplomatic ties ensures that their shared journey remains focused on progress, collaboration and the well-being of their people across all fields.

This latest message exchange stands as a testament to the deeply rooted friendship between the two nations and their determination to build a future defined by unity, strength and shared achievement.

It marks the crown prince’s first trip to the United States in several years and comes at a time when both nations aim to refocus their partnership on mutual interests, with the world’s largest economy and one of the world’s most influential energy producers seeking to strengthen cooperation across multiple sectors.

The upcoming meeting follows years of tension after the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018, an incident that generated significant international reaction, though both sides now appear intent on concentrating on broader regional challenges, strategic objectives and long-term defence and economic arrangements.

During the visit, the Saudi leader is expected to highlight the importance of security guarantees in light of continuing regional instability, particularly as Middle Eastern tensions and shifting alliances have reinforced the kingdom’s view that a more defined security framework is essential for long-term stability.

At the same time, the United States is focused on building momentum behind major Saudi investment commitments in the American economy, with discussions expected to include infrastructure, technology, industrial partnerships and new areas of digital and energy collaboration aligned with U.S. economic priorities.

The crown prince also aims to advance talks on access to artificial intelligence technologies and leading-edge computer chips, which play a central role in Saudi Arabia’s broader Vision 2030 transformation strategy and its efforts to become a regional and global hub for digital innovation.

Officials say the kingdom is seeking to secure clearer pathways for cooperation with major U.S. technology companies, both to boost domestic AI capabilities and to strengthen competition with regional neighbours pursuing similar ambitions in data, cloud infrastructure and advanced computing.

Another key topic is the ongoing dialogue about establishing a civilian nuclear programme in Saudi Arabia, which the kingdom sees as a strategic step toward diversifying its energy mix while also aligning itself with global technological and scientific trends.

Progress has been gradual because previous discussions included technical conditions, such as restrictions on uranium enrichment or fuel reprocessing, which Saudi officials viewed as limiting; however, both sides are now signalling readiness to explore more flexible frameworks that still maintain international safeguards.

Regional dynamics continue to shape the strategic environment, especially following attacks on key energy infrastructure in recent years and broader geopolitical developments that have pushed Gulf states to reassess their security partnerships and explore new defence arrangements with global powers.

Some analysts expect that discussions may result in an initial agreement or statement outlining deeper cooperation on nuclear energy, defence consultation mechanisms and shared responses to emerging security threats, though any long-term pact would likely require additional rounds of negotiation.

Experts note that Washington may explore an executive-level agreement as a preliminary step, similar to arrangements recently made with other regional partners, providing structured consultation without committing the United States to automatic military intervention.

Saudi officials say such an approach could serve as part of a broader process leading toward clearer security assurances, even if it does not fully meet the kingdom’s long-term expectations for a formal defence treaty endorsed by the U.S. Congress.

The agenda also includes regional diplomacy, economic diversification, space cooperation and joint innovation partnerships that both countries see as reinforcing economic resilience while positioning Saudi Arabia as a more prominent player in global technology and energy transitions.

As the visit approaches, observers say the meeting reflects both sides’ interest in stabilizing a key relationship that influences regional energy markets, global trade flows and broader security dynamics across the Middle East, with expectations that the talks will set the tone for deeper engagement throughout the coming year.

The outcome is likely to shape the trajectory of U.S.–Saudi cooperation on defence, digital infrastructure, energy diversification and strategic technology, making the visit one of the most closely watched diplomatic engagements of the current regional climate.

The decision, reached through constructive discussions between Lithuanian Prime Minister Inga Ruginiene and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, highlights the deepening partnership between the two neighboring European Union and NATO member states in maintaining regional stability and protecting their shared borders.

During a bilateral discussion held earlier this week, both leaders emphasized the importance of unity and coordination in addressing cross-border challenges while ensuring the safety of their citizens.

Lithuania had earlier announced a temporary closure of its land border with Belarus until the end of November in response to concerns about unauthorized air and land crossings.

Poland’s agreement to delay reopening its border points with Belarus reflects a coordinated and pragmatic approach, aimed at ensuring that any future border operations are managed under secure and well-regulated conditions.

Prime Minister Inga Ruginiene described the decision as a “strategic and balanced step” to protect the interests of both nations while preserving their commitment to cooperation and transparency.

“Our discussions reaffirmed that the security of Lithuania and Poland is interconnected,” she said during a press briefing in Vilnius.

“By aligning our actions, we are sending a clear message that regional solidarity and collective decision-making remain at the core of our relationship.”

The Lithuanian leader also underlined that the coordinated approach will allow both countries to evaluate ongoing developments on the Belarus border, particularly with regard to the reported smuggling activities and potential security concerns.

The pause in reopening border checkpoints, she said, provides an opportunity for both governments to strengthen border control systems, share intelligence, and implement additional measures that enhance safety and efficiency.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, known for his longstanding support of European unity and democratic principles, expressed solidarity with Lithuania’s decision.

He emphasized that cooperation among neighboring states is essential not only for border management but also for safeguarding broader European interests.

“Poland and Lithuania share not only a border but a commitment to peace, security, and freedom,” he said. “We are working together to ensure that our borders remain safe, orderly, and reflective of our shared values.”

The coordinated action comes at a time when the Baltic and Central European regions have been focusing on strengthening resilience and collaboration in the face of evolving geopolitical challenges.

Both Poland and Lithuania play critical roles within NATO’s eastern flank, making their joint efforts significant for the wider security framework of the European continent.

Officials from both countries have confirmed that technical teams are working closely to review and modernize border infrastructure, surveillance systems, and cross-border communication protocols.

These updates aim to ensure that once the crossings reopen, they will operate with heightened security and improved coordination.

The decision has also been positively received by European partners, who view it as an example of effective cooperation between EU member states in managing regional issues.

Analysts have noted that such coordinated approaches reinforce the European Union’s commitment to collective responsibility and mutual support among its members.

Beyond immediate security concerns, Lithuania and Poland are also exploring long-term measures to promote sustainable border management.

These include joint investments in advanced monitoring technologies, enhanced training for border personnel, and cooperation on tackling organized smuggling networks that threaten trade and safety.

The pause in reopening the Belarus border crossings also provides both countries with a valuable opportunity to engage in dialogue with neighboring nations and international partners to ensure a comprehensive and unified response.

By emphasizing collaboration over unilateral action, Lithuania and Poland have demonstrated their shared commitment to diplomacy, unity, and strategic patience.

As both nations continue to coordinate their border policies, the decision stands as a testament to their enduring alliance and mutual trust.

In aligning their actions, Lithuania and Poland have not only strengthened their bilateral relationship but also contributed to the broader goal of maintaining peace, security, and cooperation within the European community.

Their discussion, held just hours after Gabbard’s meeting with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, centered on India-U.S. security cooperation and concerns over anti-India activities by the banned Khalistani outfit Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) operating on American soil.

Strengthening India-U.S. Security Cooperation

Taking to social media, PM Modi expressed his satisfaction with the meeting, emphasizing the shared commitment of both nations to counter-terrorism, maritime security, and cybersecurity.

“Glad to welcome @TulsiGabbard to India. Exchanged views on further advancing the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. Both countries are committed to combating terrorism and enhancing maritime and cybersecurity cooperation,” PM Modi posted on X.

Gabbard’s Visit and Strategic Discussions

Gabbard arrived in Delhi early Sunday for a two-and-a-half-day visit as part of a multinational tour. Her itinerary has included high-level talks with Indian officials on intelligence collaboration, defense relations, and cybersecurity.

Her visit follows PM Modi’s trip to Washington in February, where he met with Gabbard and recognized her as a strong advocate for India-U.S. relations.

As part of her engagements, Gabbard participated in key security discussions with intelligence and defense officials from 20 countries at a conclave chaired by National Security Adviser Ajit Doval.

The event, organized by the National Security Council Secretariat, has been held alongside the Raisina Dialogue since 2022, fostering global cooperation on security challenges.

A Strengthening Alliance

This marks Gabbard’s second international visit since assuming office, following her participation in the Munich Security Conference in Germany. Her visit to India underscores the deepening India-U.S. partnership, particularly in counter-terrorism, defense collaboration, and strategic security interests.

With President Trump’s second term underway, both nations are poised to strengthen their cooperation further, reinforcing their shared vision for global stability and security.