The US launched strikes on southern Iran on February 28, targeting missile sites and boats that were reportedly attempting to place mines. The US Central Command stated that these actions were taken in self-defense to protect US troops from threats posed by Iranian forces. Central Command spokesperson Captain Tim Hawkins emphasized that the military is defending its forces while exercising restraint during the ongoing ceasefire between the US and Iran.
Iran has not yet responded to the strikes. Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Esmail Baqai noted that while some progress had been made in negotiations to end the conflict, a deal is not imminent. Following the strikes, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that a deal remains possible, citing ongoing discussions between Iran's top negotiator and Qatar's prime minister.
Rubio mentioned that President Donald Trump has expressed a desire to reach an agreement, stating, "He's either going to make a good deal or no deal." He also commented on the necessity of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open, describing current activities in the area as unlawful and unsustainable.
The strikes targeted an area near Bandar Abbas, a southern port city that houses an Iranian naval base on the Strait of Hormuz. Reports from Iranian state media indicated that local officials were investigating explosions heard in the region.
Earlier in May, a clash between Iranian and US naval destroyers in the Strait of Hormuz had occurred, with both sides blaming each other. Trump had previously suggested that a deal was close but later advised negotiators not to rush. Baqai stated that while significant progress had been made on many issues, the signing of an agreement was not imminent.
The discussions reportedly involve a 60-day ceasefire extension, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and further negotiations regarding Iran's nuclear program. US intelligence suggests that Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is currently in a secure location, complicating communication with his representatives and potentially delaying negotiations. The US and Iranian forces have maintained a ceasefire since April 8, with Iran controlling Gulf shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and the US Navy attempting to blockade Iranian ports.
