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Trump in China as Iran War Stalls, Energy Markets Tense

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President Trump landed in China amid a stalled Middle East war that began in February. Earlier in Washington, he warned Iran that the U.S. would “decimate” the country if it failed to meet nuclear‑enrichment limits. The statement arrived as U.S. talks hit a dead‑end for the future of regional stability.

Trump’s remarks come as Iran pushes for U.S. recognition of its control over the Strait of Hormuz, a passage that channels roughly one‑fifth of global oil. The U.S., meanwhile, has blocked Iranian ports, a move that has barely dented Iran’s missile stockpile, which 70 percent of pre‑war levels.

Intense fighting pours through Lebanon, where Hezbollah rockets keep Israeli forces on high alert. Eight civilians died in Israeli airstrikes on Wednesday, including a mother and two children, according to the Lebanese health ministry. The conflict has dragged in U.S. allies and tightened pressure on global energy markets for stability.

Analysis suggests U.S. military actions have not neutralized Iran’s core capabilities. Intelligence reports confirm that Iran retains roughly 70 percent of its prewar missile arsenal and has restored access to most launch sites near the Strait. Investors watch closely, as any escalation could trigger higher oil prices and reshuffle supply chains.