A new Gulf flashpoint erupted on Feb 3 after Iranian military activity around US assets and shipping routes. Iranian drone was shot down after approaching the USS Abraham Lincoln, while a US‑flagged tanker, was allegedly confronted by several Iranian gunboats and then escorted to safety by the US Navy with additional air support. Iran’s side disputed the claim. The developments come as Washington says it will still pursue nuclear talks—reported to be held in Oman—with regional allies expected, even as rhetoric hardens and speculation continues over whether the US could strike Iran.