Sep 14, 2026, 09:00 AM UTC

Following US actions that destroyed five Iranian Revolutionary Guard vessels near Larak Island, military exchanges have escalated near the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian state media claimed strikes on six maritime vessels, including three oil tankers and a US aircraft carrier, alongside launching 20 missiles at American military bases in Jordan. Officials confirmed a fire on one targeted tanker was extinguished.

Iranian military sources dismissed American claims regarding mine-laying activities, calling the narrative "pure fantasy". US President Donald Trump asserted the shipping corridor remains open and Iranian forces face severe difficulties. However, American intelligence assessments warned that Revolutionary Guard personnel may feel emboldened, raising concerns of further escalation in the region.

Sources: ANSA, Corriere della Sera, Il Messaggero, La Repubblica.

Russian forces carried out extensive overnight missile and drone strikes across Ukraine, targeting civilian infrastructure in Kyiv, Odesa, and Chernihiv. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that at least 13 people were killed and 40 injured in the attacks. The barrage followed a strike on a Kryvyi Rih shopping mall that left 15 dead and over 130 wounded, drawing sharp condemnation from EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas.

In response, Ukrainian forces targeted a major Lukoil refinery inside Russia, while Moscow stated it remains engaged in prisoner exchange negotiations. On defense cooperation, the United Kingdom and France authorized the localized production of Scalp cruise missiles in Ukraine. Meanwhile, Italy reaffirmed its opposition to sending troops or participating in planned multinational military maneuvers set for October.

Sources: ANSA, Corriere della Sera, La Repubblica.

Debate in the Serbian National Assembly over the 2026 budget rebalancing adjourned following intense deliberations, with lawmakers scheduled to resume discussions on the 59-item agenda.

Ruling coalition deputies defended the proposed spending adjustments, maintaining that increased state revenues will sustainably support social welfare programs and major infrastructure projects. Conversely, opposition lawmakers criticized the plan as pre-election expenditure financed through public debt. Deputy Radomir Lazović proposed redirecting funds allocated for the National Stadium toward student welfare, flood protection, and local infrastructure.

Concurrently, Prime Minister Đuro Macut submitted a formal request to dissolve parliament after receiving cabinet approval. President Aleksandar Vučić now holds a 72-hour deadline to enact the dissolution and officially trigger snap parliamentary elections.

Sources: Tanjug, Danas, N1, Beta, Vijesti

US President Donald Trump stated there are currently no diplomatic talks scheduled with Iran, reiterating that Tehran must not acquire nuclear weapons. Trump warned of possible military action if Iranian or Omani forces disrupt US maritime operations in the Strait of Hormuz, following an attack on a commercial vessel in the strategic waterway. In response, Iranian officials cautioned that their military would shift to an offensive posture should diplomatic channels fail.

Meanwhile, efforts to secure a cease-fire in Gaza remain stalled. Although Hamas announced its acceptance of the second phase of a US-backed peace proposal, Israeli leadership rejected demands for an immediate troop withdrawal. Israeli officials maintained that military forces will remain in the territory until Hamas completes full disarmament.

Sources: CDM (Cafe del Montenegro)

Healthcare facilities across the United Kingdom continue to report a rise in patients suffering from severe eye pain and visual impairment after observing a recent solar eclipse. According to medical authorities, many affected individuals viewed the astronomical phenomenon without adequate protective eyewear or relied on standard sunglasses, which fail to shield against intense solar radiation.

Ophthalmologists warn that direct exposure to solar rays can cause solar retinopathy, leading to long-term retinal damage, persistent blurred vision, and central blind spots. Health officials urge anyone experiencing discomfort to consult eye care specialists immediately, emphasizing that only certified protective glasses safely prevent injury during solar observations.

Sources: Kanal 5.