The United States has carried out fresh military strikes targeting Iranian missile facilities and vessels allegedly attempting to lay naval mines, escalating tensions despite ongoing diplomatic efforts to preserve a fragile ceasefire.
According to the US Central Command, the attacks were conducted in southern Iran near the strategic port city of Bandar Abbas, home to a major Iranian naval base along the Strait of Hormuz.
US officials described the operation as a “self-defence” action aimed at protecting American forces from threats posed by Iranian military activities. Targets reportedly included missile launch sites and boats suspected of attempting to deploy mines in regional waterways.
A spokesperson for CENTCOM, Capt. Tim Hawkins, said the strikes were conducted with restraint and did not signal the end of the ceasefire arrangement between Washington and Tehran.
Iranian state media confirmed explosions near Bandar Abbas and reported casualties, though officials did not immediately provide a full damage assessment.
The latest attacks came as Iranian negotiators arrived in Qatar for renewed talks aimed at easing tensions and discussing broader regional security issues.
Iran strongly condemned the strikes, accusing Washington of violating the ceasefire and warning of consequences. Iranian officials said the attacks risk undermining ongoing diplomatic efforts in the region.
Meanwhile, statements attributed to Iran’s leadership warned that American military bases in the Middle East would no longer enjoy security if hostilities continue.
The confrontation has heightened fears of wider instability around the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global oil shipping route. Oil prices rose following reports of the strikes as markets reacted to concerns over energy supply disruptions and escalating regional conflict.
