Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced it conducted a retaliatory strike on a base used by US forces, claiming it was involved in an attack on an Iranian communications tower. This statement was reported by the semi-official Fars news agency on Monday. The IRGC did not specify the location of the base targeted.
Kuwait's air defenses intercepted missiles and drones, with sirens sounding across the country, according to the state news agency KUNA. Kuwait's Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the Iranian attacks, stating that such actions undermine efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region.
This incident follows US strikes on Iran, which were described as a response to aggressive actions, including the shootdown of a US MQ-1 drone operating in international waters. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that US fighter aircraft eliminated Iranian air defenses and other threats, asserting that no US troops were harmed in the Iranian attack.
The recent exchanges of fire occur amid ongoing indirect negotiations between the US and Iran aimed at extending a ceasefire that began in April. Reports indicate that the two sides are reviewing a potential memorandum of understanding (MoU) that could extend the ceasefire for an additional 60 days and initiate discussions to end the war permanently.
The proposed MoU reportedly includes provisions for unrestricted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and a commitment from Iran not to pursue nuclear weapons. US media outlets have reported that President Trump requested amendments to the preliminary MoU, which Iranian state media claimed would also involve the release of $12 billion in frozen assets. However, the White House dismissed this report as a fabrication.
Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei, attributed delays in the diplomatic process to a lack of trust and contradictory positions from Washington, as well as Israeli military actions in Lebanon. He emphasized that negotiations are taking place in an atmosphere of suspicion and mistrust.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that any violation of the ceasefire by Israel would be seen as a violation by the US as well. President Trump expressed confidence that a deal would ultimately be reached, despite criticism of his handling of the situation.
