US sanctions Indian and Turkish firms over alleged help for Iranian tankers

■ Steady

US sanctions Indian and Turkish firms as indirect US-Iran talks continue amid strikes

On Thursday the US Treasury sanctioned Indian and Turkish firms for allegedly helping Iranian tankers, saying an Indian couple faked ship registries, including for Guyana and Laos. South Korea said it will send maritime patrol aircraft and a bomb-disposal team near the Strait of Hormuz, while ruling out military intervention. On Tuesday Trump confirmed a US strike on an Iranian anti-aircraft site, and Iran's IRGC said four vessels hit naval mines in Hormuz, which is the IRGC's own account. Indirect talks continue, with Iran calling Washington's reply on Hormuz unconvincing.

• Khamenei said US policy toward Iran will not change despite Republican midterm losses, while Iranian officials welcomed the Democratic wins.
• The US reportedly struck Qeshm Island on Monday, described as one of a series of limited strikes carried out secretly in recent weeks.
• Iran says the US must lift its naval blockade and meet its demands in full; Vice President Vance reportedly sees progress.
• Brent crude fell more than 6.5% on Monday to as low as $105.55 on hopes of a breakthrough.