Nexus Europa — Aug 19, 2026, 08:00 PM UTC

Middle East tensions rise as US-Iran truce expires and maritime standoff deepens

Tensions across the Middle East have intensified following the expiration of the 60-day US-Iran truce, triggering renewed strikes and a maritime standoff over Hormuz.

Regional tensions have escalated following the expiration of the 60-day Islamabad memorandum truce between the United States and Iran.

US President Donald Trump asserted that Washington maintains control over the Strait of Hormuz, suggesting the waterway could soon be designated American territory. Iranian officials rejected the claim, insisting on complete sanctions relief, the unfreezing of foreign assets, and an end to port blockades under the June memorandum framework. Tehran also placed bounties on American military personnel and accused Israel of disrupting diplomatic implementation.

The breakdown coincided with renewed regional strikes. Air defenses intercepted two Iranian missiles over Dubai, while Houthi forces launched fresh attacks on Yemen's port of Al Makha. In the Gulf of Oman, the US military fired upon the container ship Vela Nova, alleging the vessel attempted to breach transit restrictions in the strait.

Sources: ANSA, Corriere della Sera, Il Messaggero, La Repubblica, Shipping Italy

Croatia wildfire contained near Omiš as dozens receive hospital treatment

Firefighters in Dalmatia have contained a major wildfire near Omiš that destroyed property and injured dozens, while emergency crews address remaining hotspots.

Emergency services in Dalmatia continue mopping-up operations following a severe wildfire that spread from Lokva Rogoznica toward the outskirts of Omiš. The blaze destroyed residential structures, vehicles, and boats, forcing over 500 residents and tourists to flee into the Adriatic Sea before maritime rescue crews and private boat owners transported them to safety.

Medical staff at the Clinical Hospital Centre in Split treated dozens of patients for fire-related injuries, admitting 14 individuals, with up to eight remaining in intensive care with severe burns. Canadair firefighting planes assisted ground units in cooling remaining hotspots as utility workers gradually restore electricity across affected zones.

Discrepancies persist regarding casualties; Danas reported that a body was recovered in Omiš, whereas Beta cited official sources indicating no registered fatalities.

Sources: Avaz, Beta, Danas, N1, Vijesti.