Iran Announces Partial Closure of Strait of Hormuz for Several Hours
As part of the “Smart Control of the Strait of Hormuz Exercise,” parts of the Strait of Hormuz will be closed for several hours to ensure navigational safety. The main phase of the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy drills is taking place in the Strait of Hormuz, utilizing various offensive and defensive weapon systems aimed at testing the combat readiness of forces and their capability to respond to potential security threats.
Saudi Supreme Court Declares February 18 as First Day of Ramadan
According to an official announcement by the Saudi Supreme Court, after rigorous observation and verification at crescent sighting points across the country, the new moon for the month of Ramadan was successfully sighted. In accordance with the Islamic principle of “fast upon sighting the moon, break fast upon sighting the moon,” Wednesday, February 18, 2026, is designated as the first day of Ramadan. The holy month officially begins, with Saudi Arabia and several Gulf nations starting their fasts concurrently.
Foreign Ministers of Eight Nations Jointly Condemn Israeli Land Registration Procedures
The foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Jordan, the UAE, Qatar, Indonesia, Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey issued a joint statement strongly condemning the Israeli cabinet’s approval of new land registration procedures in the West Bank. The statement declared this “illegal measure” aims to accelerate illegal settlement activities and confiscate land, constituting a blatant violation of international law and international humanitarian law.
Second Round of US-Iran Indirect Negotiations Held in Geneva
The second round of indirect negotiations between the United States and Iran commenced in Geneva, Switzerland. The talks were held at the Omani diplomatic mission in Geneva. The US side was led by President Trump’s envoy, Witkoff, and his son-in-law, Kushner, while the Iranian side was represented by a delegation headed by Foreign Minister Araghchi. Omani representatives continued to act as mediators.
Hamas Calls on “Peace Commission” to Halt Israeli Ceasefire Violations
Palestinian Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) spokesperson Hazem Qassem stated that the US-initiated so-called “Peace Commission” should take action to halt Israel’s violations of the ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip. Hamas called on the commission to implement its declared slogans and principles at its upcoming meeting and take tangible action.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Emphasizes US Cannot Destroy Iran
In response to US military threats, Iran’s Supreme Leader stated that over the past 47 years, America has tried to destroy Iran but has not succeeded, and it will not succeed now. He pointed out that the US claims its military is the most powerful in the world, but sometimes the most powerful army can be dealt such a heavy blow that it “cannot get up.”
Israeli Defense Minister Says No Withdrawal Until Hamas Disarmed
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that Israel will not withdraw “a single millimeter” from Gaza until Hamas is disarmed. Katz emphasized that unless Hamas disarms its weapons, tunnels, and everything else, Israel will not move a millimeter from the yellow line, with the motto being “until the last tunnel.”
Iran Proposes New Three-Year Uranium Enrichment Suspension to US
Iran presented a new proposal to the United States: suspending uranium enrichment activities for three years, while simultaneously shipping some highly enriched uranium out of the country, and discussing economic cooperation including oil, gas, mining, and aviation in exchange for sanctions relief. This proposal indicates Iran’s willingness to make substantive compromises in nuclear negotiations.
UN Says Clearing Gaza Rubble Could Take Seven Years
The UN Development Programme stated that at the current pace, clearing the rubble in Gaza could take seven years, and the majority of residents are still living in extremely dangerous conditions. UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner noted that 90% of people in Gaza are living amidst the rubble, and the humanitarian situation is extremely dire.
Israel Issues 60-Day Ultimatum to Hamas for Disarmament
Israel stated that Hamas will face a 60-day deadline to disarm, otherwise the Israeli military will “complete the task.” Cabinet Secretary Yossi Fuchs indicated that this deadline may begin after the inaugural meeting of the “Peace Commission” on February 19, during which Hamas must hand over all its weapons.