Middle East situation 'in a downward spiral' | Ryan Bridge TODAY

Middle East situation 'in a downward spiral' | Ryan Bridge TODAY <!--mynz:youtube-chapters--> {"v":1,"chapters":[{"timeSeconds":1,"label":"Intro to Middle East Situation","summary":"The video begins with the anchor introducing the topic of the Middle East situation, describing it as being in a downward spiral."},{"timeSeconds":6,"label":"US Guardian of Hormuz Strait","summary":"David Smith from The Guardian discusses Donald Trump's claim that the US will be the guardian of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump has suggested a 20% levy on all cargo passing through."},{"timeSeconds":36,"label":"Iran's Exploitation of Strait","summary":"Smith explains that Iran has been exploiting the Strait of Hormuz as a point of leverage. He notes that 14 ships passed through on Sunday, the lowest total for a month."},{"timeSeconds":50,"label":"Downward Spiral and Military Exchanges","summary":"The situation is described as being in a downward spiral with daily military exchanges. Iran is mocking Trump's use of the term 'guardian'."},{"timeSeconds":125,"label":"Trump's Press Conference Announcement","summary":"It is mentioned that Trump will address the nation on Thursday night, potentially to formalize what is already happening and to announce his stance on the strait."},{"timeSeconds":155,"label":"Impact on Oil Prices","summary":"The discussion touches on the impact of the situation on oil prices, noting that while prices are low in the US, they are higher elsewhere."},{"timeSeconds":201,"label":"Lack of Clarity and Political Headaches","summary":"The vagueness of the understanding and the potential for political headaches for Trump due to rising gas prices are discussed."},{"timeSeconds":239,"label":"New Zealand's Perspective","summary":"The anchor questions whether New Zealanders will be angered by the situation, given the potential for increased oil prices globally."}]} <!--/mynz:youtube-chapters-->