Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei stated that regional countries would no longer act as shields for US military bases, according to a statement broadcast by state television. Khamenei emphasized that the United States is losing its influence in the region and will not have safe havens for military operations. His comments were made during a message for the Eid al-Adha holiday.
The remarks come amid ongoing negotiations between Iran and the United States aimed at reaching a deal to end a conflict that began on February 28. A ceasefire has been in effect since April 8. Iran's foreign ministry indicated that while progress has been made in discussions, a formal agreement is not imminent.
Iran's Revolutionary Guards reported the downing of a US drone and warned against any violations of the ceasefire, asserting their right to respond. Meanwhile, US Central Command confirmed attacks on missile sites in southern Iran, despite the ceasefire.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio commented that negotiations with Iran could take several days, emphasizing the need to keep the Strait of Hormuz open. He noted that the US would pursue diplomatic efforts before considering other options.
In related developments, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced plans to intensify military actions against Hezbollah in Lebanon, despite a ceasefire agreement. Discussions in Doha between Iranian officials and Qatar's prime minister focused on the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's nuclear program, with potential implications for the release of frozen Iranian funds.
The ongoing tensions in the region have led to a decrease in maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, impacting global oil prices and related costs.
