The United States has conducted strikes on Iran, targeting the country’s missile launch sites and mine-laying boats despite indicating that a peace agreement was close to being finalized.
According to the US military, the strikes were carried out on Monday in southern Iran in a self-defense capacity. Captain Tim Hawkins, a spokesperson for US Central Command, stated that the strikes were necessary to safeguard American troops from potential threats posed by Iranian forces, emphasizing that the US was exercising restraint during the ongoing ceasefire.
The military action followed recent statements by President Trump regarding progress in negotiations for a peace deal with Iran, involving discussions with Gulf allies, Israel, and a mediator from Pakistan.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) reported shooting down a US drone and engaging a fighter jet that had entered Iranian airspace, without specifying the exact timing of these incidents.
The US military targeted the Strait of Hormuz, which has been mostly closed since the conflict began, aiming at boats attempting to lay mines and missile sites used by Iran. The strikes focused on an area near Bandar Abbas, a strategic location in southern Iran that houses a military port and a dual-use airport, with Washington accusing Tehran of mine-laying activities near the strait.
Iran issued warnings in response, labeling the US strikes as a clear breach of the ceasefire agreement with the US and vowing to retaliate against any aggression. The Iranian foreign ministry condemned the US actions as terrorist and emphasized Iran’s commitment to defending its sovereignty.
A ceasefire, brokered by Pakistan, has been in effect since April 8, coinciding with ongoing efforts to reach a comprehensive agreement. While Iran has suggested that the temporary truce was violated, the US perspective seems to differ.
Regarding the ceasefire, Capt. Hawkins reiterated the US commitment to defending its forces while showing restraint. China, a key ally of Iran, urged both nations to uphold their obligations under the ceasefire agreement and resolve disputes through peaceful dialogue and negotiations.