Economic D-Day Escalation: With the Iran war nearing six months, President Trump is pushing an “unprecedented” sanctions push aimed at forcing Tehran to end the conflict and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, while Treasury chief Scott Bessent says the goal is to “collapse” Iran’s government and warns partners they’ll face penalties. Tehran’s Response: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi calls the campaign “economic terrorism” and says Washington has “seen this movie before,” as President Masoud Pezeshkian urges ending the war from a “position of strength and dignity” and Iran’s armed forces chief warns any miscalculation will trigger “crushing” retaliation. China Pushes Back: China says U.S. “sanctions and pressure” won’t solve the conflict and rejects unilateral measures not authorized by the UN. Defense Industry Claim: Iran’s deputy defense minister says advanced weapons production is continuing “uninterrupted,” with assets relocated to avoid strikes. Regional Ripples: Lebanon reiterates its decision to expel the Iranian ambassador, while a London court sees guilty pleas tied to arson attacks targeting Iran International offices. War Costs/Logistics: Pentagon updates put U.S. casualties at 757 wounded and 18 killed, as CENTCOM says it has helped move hundreds of millions of barrels through Hormuz despite Iran’s blockade.