WS #6477

The dominant narrative remains the escalating Iran conflict, with multiple cross-corroborated developments in this window. Trump announced 'Project Freedom' to escort ships out of the Strait of Hormuz, set to begin Monday, with CENTCOM committing 15,000 personnel, guided-missile destroyers, and over 100 aircraft. Iran warned this violates the ceasefire, and a tanker was attacked near Fujairah, UAE, underscoring maritime risks. Oil prices edged down slightly (Brent ~$107.77) as markets digest the plan, but the Strait remains effectively closed. The OPEC+ output increase of 188,000 bpd is seen as largely symbolic given export constraints. Separately, Spirit Airlines shut down operations, stranding travelers and impacting ~15,000 jobs, with major airlines offering capped fares. The US economy rebounded to 2% Q1 GDP growth, beating expectations. The narrative arc is ESCALATING on Iran tensions, with 'Project Freedom' introducing a new phase of direct US naval engagement. Spirit's collapse is a high-significance negative for the travel sector. The US GDP data is a positive counter-signal to recession fears.