US military conducts airstrikes in southern Iran during diplomatic negotiations

US Central Command Conducts Strikes in Southern Iran Amid Ongoing Talks

The US military has announced that it carried out strikes in southern Iran, citing self-defense as the reason for the action. The strikes targeted missile launch sites and Iranian boats attempting to emplace mines, according to a statement from Navy Captain Tim Hawkins, a spokesperson for US Central Command (CENTCOM). CENTCOM stated that its forces are continuing to defend themselves while exercising restraint during the ongoing ceasefire.

Iranian sources have reported that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) had previously targeted an Iranian vessel at sea before the US strikes. Several IRGC personnel were killed in the attacks, according to these sources.

The latest strikes occur despite a ceasefire officially in place between the US and Iran since April 8. The US President has stated his intention to reach a peace deal with Iran, but the situation remains uncertain.

A high-level Iranian delegation arrived in Qatar on Monday to discuss roadblocks to a permanent peace deal. The delegation includes Iranian Minister of Foreign Affairs Abbas Araghchi and Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf.

US President Donald Trump has expressed his commitment to reaching a substantial deal with Iran, stating that he will not agree to anything less than a great deal for all parties involved. He also emphasized the importance of Muslim-majority countries signing up to the Abraham Accords to normalize ties with Israel.

Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated that progress has been made in talks with the US, but downplayed the prospect of an impending breakthrough. The sides are reportedly focusing on ending the war rather than discussing Iran’s nuclear program at this stage.

The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected as negotiations continue.

Source: Al Jazeera