Ships on fire after hitting mines in Strait of Hormuz | BBC News

Iran says four ships have hit mines in the Strait of Hormuz, although the United States has said it cleared obstructions from the key route. The report also covers Qatar signing a long-term deal to import gas from the United States, which analysts see as a sign of expected long-term disruption. Other items include reports of a letter from JD Vance to leaders in Tehran, the United Nations warning that domestic repression has worsened during the war in Iran, and Israeli elections that appear headed for deadlock.

• Iran reports four ships hit mines in the Strait of Hormuz
• Qatar signs a long-term deal to import US natural gas
• UN says domestic repression in Iran has worsened during the war
• Israeli elections look set for deadlock

Iran says four ships have hit mines in the Strait of Hormuz, despite the US saying it had cleared obstructions from the key route. Qatar, one of the world's biggest natural gas exporters before the war, signs a long-term deal to import gas from the United States. Analysts say it's a sign of expected long-term disruption. JD Vance is reported to have sent a letter to leaders in Tehran. Donald Trump says it's not about peace negotiations, but focused on getting medical supplies to Iran. The United Nations says the war in Iran has made domestic repression worse, with the public bearing the brunt of both military strikes and government crackdowns. And the Israeli elections look set for a deadlock, with Arab-led parties potentially key to forming the next government. Subscribe to our channel here: https://bbc.in/bbcnews For the latest news download the BBC News app or visit BBC.com/news #BBCNews