US Expands Pressure on Iran Beyond Maritime Blockade

The United States has widened its campaign against Iran by establishing Task Force Iron Gate to disrupt weapons supplies, sanctioned materials and revenue networks moving through land borders and the Caspian Sea. The team will coordinate with US agencies and is not a new military deployment. Pakistan is among four neighbouring countries highlighted in a US military graphic. Meanwhile, Qatar is urging Washington and Tehran to pursue a negotiated settlement and avoid further escalation.