Washington: The US military has announced the launch of new strikes on southern Iran, aiming at Iranian missile sites and boats that were reportedly attempting to place mines. These actions, as stated by US Central Command, were executed in "self-defense" with the intent "to protect our troops from threats posed by Iranian forces."
According to Ghana Web, a spokesperson for Central Command emphasized that while the US military is committed to defending its forces, it is also exercising restraint during the current ceasefire. These recent strikes coincide with statements from Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Baqai, who acknowledged progress in US-Iran talks. However, Baqai clarified that a peace agreement "is not imminent."
Iran has yet to issue a response to the latest US military actions, and it remains uncertain how these developments will influence the prospect of a peace agreement. Over the weekend, President Donald Trump suggested that a deal was within reach, but later advised negotiators "not to rush into" an agreement. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also expressed optimism about a possible agreement on Monday.
Nevertheless, on the same day, Baqai remarked, "It is correct to say that we have reached a conclusion on a large portion of the issues under discussion... But to say that this means the signing of an agreement is imminent - no-one can make such a claim." The conflict, which intensified on February 28 with US and Israeli strikes on Iran, has led to widespread tensions across the Middle East. Iran's subsequent actions, including closing the Strait of Hormuz, have exacerbated the situation and caused a surge in global oil prices.