American forces have carried out “self-defence strikes” against Iranian naval assets and a rocket launcher in the south of the country, the US Central Command has confirmed, even as the White House insists that ceasefire negotiations remain on track.
Pentagon confirms “defensive” action
In a statement to Fox News on Monday, Captain Tim Hawkins, a spokesperson for US Central Command (CENTCOM), said: “US forces conducted self-defence strikes in southern Iran to protect our service members from Iranian militant threats. CENTCOM remains committed to defending our forces while exercising restraint amid a continuing ceasefire.”
According to a senior US official, two Iranian vessels laying mines were sighted and destroyed near the Strait of Hormuz. A separate rocket launcher, located in the port of Bandar Abbas and believed to be targeting American military aircraft, was also struck.
“These were defensive strikes,” the official added.
Ceasefire still intact – for now
Two other sources familiar with the matter told Fox News that the strikes do not signal an end to the ceasefire arrangement with Tehran.
Over the weekend, senior US officials, including President Donald Trump, had described the talks as progressing well. The prospect of a near-term peace deal was discussed, particularly after Trump cancelled plans to attend his eldest son’s wedding, remaining in Washington due to “government-related circumstances.”
Trump’s mixed messages on Iran deal
On Saturday, Trump suggested that an agreement was imminent, writing on Truth Social that “the final aspects and details of the deal are currently under negotiation and will be announced shortly.”
However, a day later he struck a more cautious tone, saying he had instructed American negotiators “not to rush the deal,” though he maintained that the dialogue had so far been constructive.
On Monday, Trump declared that Iran’s enriched uranium “will either be immediately handed over to the United States for destruction” or “will be destroyed on site” in Iran or another mutually acceptable location. He added that the Atomic Energy Commission – or its equivalent – should oversee the process.
“Great deal or return to shooting”
“It will either be a great deal for everyone, or no agreement at all – back to the front lines and shooting, on a larger and more powerful scale than ever before – and nobody wants that!” Trump said.
