WASHINGTON, July 30 (V7N) – Tensions in the Middle East continued to intensify on Wednesday as the United States imposed new sanctions on Iran, Israel and the US held high-level discussions on Tehran’s military capabilities, and China reportedly engaged in direct talks with Yemen’s Houthi movement to safeguard oil shipments through the Red Sea.

The US Department of the Treasury announced fresh sanctions targeting eight oil tankers and 10 entities allegedly involved in facilitating Iran’s oil trade. Washington said the measures are intended to reduce revenue used to finance Iran’s weapons programmes and its regional allies.

The sanctions come amid heightened tensions following recent exchanges between the United States and Iran, while disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz have increased concerns over global energy supplies.

According to Israeli media outlet i24NEWS, Iranian missile capabilities and its nuclear programme were among the key issues discussed during a recent meeting between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House. Citing a senior Israeli diplomatic source, the report said the leaders reviewed Iran’s remaining missile stockpile, the reported role of Mojtaba Khamenei, and developments related to the Pickaxe Mountain nuclear facility.

Meanwhile, Reuters, citing six sources, reported that China has held direct discussions with Yemen’s Houthi movement to ensure the safe passage of Chinese oil tankers through the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. The talks reportedly followed Houthi threats against vessels linked to Saudi Arabian ports.

According to the report, at least four crude oil tankers carrying Saudi oil to China have transited the strategic waterway since July 20, with each voyage coordinated in advance with the Houthis. Two regional officials also told Reuters that Iran had been informed of the arrangements.

The latest developments underscore growing geopolitical tensions across the region, with global energy security and maritime trade increasingly affected by the evolving conflict.

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