The United States Central Command says the United States military has launched new strikes on southern Iran, targeting Iranian missile sites and boats allegedly attempting to place naval mines.
According to a statement issued by CENTCOM, the attacks were carried out in “self-defense” and aimed at protecting U.S. forces from threats posed by Iranian military units.
A CENTCOM spokesperson stated that the U.S. military continues to defend its forces “while using restraint during the ongoing ceasefire.”
The latest strikes come amid continuing diplomatic negotiations between Washington and Tehran over a possible agreement to end the conflict.
Esmail Baqai said some progress has been made in talks with the United States, but stressed that a final agreement is “not imminent.”
At the weekend, Donald Trump suggested the two sides were close to a deal, although he later stated that negotiators had been instructed “not to rush” into an agreement.
Meanwhile, Marco Rubio also indicated that a possible agreement could still be reached.
However, Baqai later clarified:
- Significant issues remain unresolved
- Progress in discussions does not mean an agreement is immediately forthcoming
The conflict escalated after the United States and Israel launched large-scale strikes on Iran on February 28.
Iran subsequently responded by:
- Launching attacks against Israel
- Targeting U.S.-aligned Gulf states
- Effectively blocking the Strait of Hormuz
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy shipping routes, carrying roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies.
The conflict has contributed to:
- Sharp increases in global oil prices
- Shipping disruptions
- Currency instability in several Asian economies
- Rising inflation and energy costs worldwide
Iran has not yet officially responded to the latest U.S. strikes.
