According to Xinhua News Agency, the U.S. Central Command, responsible for U.S. military operations in the Middle East, issued a statement on the 27th stating that its Ninth Air Force will conduct an air combat readiness exercise lasting several days to demonstrate its capabilities for rapid deployment, dispersed deployment, and sustained operations within the Central Command's area of responsibility. According to CCTV News, the United States has reportedly informed Israel about the progress of preparations for action against Iran. The President of Iran held a telephone conversation with the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia. The foreign ministers of Iran and Qatar also communicated via phone.
According to Xinhua News Agency, the U.S. Central Command, responsible for U.S. military operations in the Middle East, issued a statement on the 27th stating that its Ninth Air Force would conduct a multi-day air combat readiness exercise to demonstrate its capability for rapid deployment, dispersed operations, and sustained combat within the Central Command's area of responsibility. The statement noted that this exercise aims to enhance the dispersed deployment capabilities of equipment and personnel, strengthen regional partnerships, and prepare for flexible response operations within the Central Command’s area of responsibility.
During the exercise, the U.S. military will deploy small units to multiple contingency locations and validate rapid deployment, mission execution, and withdrawal procedures with the support of small, efficient logistics teams.
The U.S. Central Command did not provide specific dates or locations for the exercise.
This exercise comes amid increasing U.S. military pressure on Iran. The day before, the Central Command announced that the U.S. aircraft carrier strike group led by the USS Abraham Lincoln had entered Middle Eastern waters.
International oil prices surged by 3% during trading. WTI crude oil rose by 3.0%, reaching $62.46 per barrel, while Brent crude oil increased by 3.0%, hitting $66.72 per barrel.
Spot gold prices broke through the $5,120-per-ounce mark, reaching $5,120.99 per ounce, with daily gains expanding to over 2%. A weaker U.S. dollar also significantly boosted gold prices on the day.
The United States reportedly informed Israel about its progress in preparing actions against Iran.
According to CCTV News, on the 27th local time, sources revealed that the United States recently informed Israel about its preparations for possible military actions against Iran. The U.S. side stated that the relevant preparations are expected to be completed within two weeks, and an "opportunity window" suitable for action may emerge in the coming months.
The U.S. side also emphasized that this does not mean action must wait until all preparations are complete. If President Trump issues an order, the U.S. action could proceed earlier, but currently, this option is not seen as imminent.
Iranian President spoke with Saudi Crown Prince, and the foreign ministers of Iran and Qatar held a phone conversation.
According to CCTV News, on the 27th local time, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian held a telephone conversation with Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman:
During the call, Pezeshkian stated that Israel and the United States had directly intervened in the recent unrest in Iran. The threats and psychological warfare from the U.S. side, aimed at undermining regional security, would only bring instability to itself. He expressed his belief that the unity and cohesion of Islamic countries could ensure lasting security, stability, and peace in the region. Saudi Arabia plays a very important role in this regard.
Pezeshkian also noted that Iran has always been prepared, and remains ready, to welcome any process conducive to achieving peace, stability, preventing conflict, and avoiding war, within the framework of international law, fully respecting and safeguarding national sovereignty and people’s rights.
Mohammed stated that Saudi Arabia believes any threats or tensions against Iran are unacceptable. Saudi Arabia is ready to cooperate with Iran and other countries in the region to jointly establish lasting peace and security.
According to CCTV News, on the 27th local time, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held a telephone conversation with Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani to exchange views on bilateral relations and the international situation. Both parties emphasized during the call the necessity of continuing cooperation in all fields of mutual interest between the two countries to further promote bilateral relations. When discussing the latest regional and international developments, the two foreign ministers stressed the importance of advancing diplomatic efforts to maintain regional stability and ease tensions.
Editor/Liam
