Iran warns of harsh response to US sanctions; Israel and Syria meet in Jordan

Iran warned Monday it would respond harshly to anticipated expanded U.S. sanctions, saying its hands are not tied and escalation would bring consequences. The threat follows weeks of impasse over Iran's shipping disruptions through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's currency hit a record low ahead of the expected announcement, as traders anticipated tighter restrictions on exports. Tehran maintains demands for lifting the U.S. naval blockade and reparations, while holding separate talks with Oman on jointly managing the waterway. Separately, Israeli and Syrian officials met in Jordan to defuse tensions after Israeli strikes on a Syrian air base. A Palestinian American whose West Bank home was besieged by settlers said he still cannot move freely, with no arrests announced.