Tehran, May 26:
The United States military has carried out “self-defence strikes” targeting Iranian military assets in southern Iran, escalating tensions despite ongoing ceasefire negotiations between the two countries.
According to US Central Command (CENTCOM), the strikes were aimed at neutralising threats posed by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The targets included missile launch sites and boats allegedly attempting to lay naval mines near the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz.
Reports indicate that at least two IRGC boats were destroyed, along with a missile launcher near coastal areas such as Bandar Abbas, after Iranian forces reportedly fired at US aircraft.
US officials described the operation as a “defensive” measure intended to protect American troops and assets in the region. The strikes come at a sensitive time, as Washington and Tehran are engaged in negotiations to extend a fragile ceasefire and potentially reach a broader agreement over Iran’s nuclear programme.