First Thing: Trump flip-flops on Hormuz toll and threatens Iran’s civilian infrastructure

President Donald Trump has escalated threats against Iran, warning of potential strikes on civilian infrastructure like power plants and bridges if Tehran does not agree to a deal. These comments echo similar remarks made in March. International humanitarian law prohibits the destruction of civilian infrastructure, and such actions could be considered war crimes.

In a policy reversal, Trump announced the scrapping of a proposed 20% toll on ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz for U.S. "security." He attributed this decision to "highly productive conversations with Middle East leadership," while also touting significant investments. Despite dropping the toll, the U.S. will continue its blockade of Iranian ports.

The president's shifting stance and aggressive rhetoric come amid ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran. The threat to target civilian facilities, even if intended as a negotiating tactic, raises concerns about potential violations of international law and the risk of further escalation in the region.

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based on highly productive conversations with Middle East leadership