US forces conducted a series of defensive strikes in southern Iran on Monday
The objective was to protect their troops from direct threats posed by Iranian forces, according to the US Central Command (CENTCOM).
The US military destroyed Iranian ships that were laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil transport, and struck missile launch sites.
A senior US official confirmed that the strikes eliminated two Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) vessels used to lay mines and a surface-to-air missile site in Bandar Abbas, which had been used to target US fighter jets.
CENTCOM spokesman Captain Tim Hawkins explained to Fox News that the actions were in self-defense.
He reinforced that the United States continues to protect its forces, but is acting with restraint during the temporary ceasefire in effect with Iran.
Two well-placed sources consulted by the broadcaster highlighted that these attacks do not signify the end of the truce agreement with Tehran.
Meanwhile, diplomatic negotiations between Washington and Tehran are ongoing.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters that the talks could still take several days.
He emphasized that the United States will give diplomacy every chance before considering other measures against the Iranian regime.
Rubio, speaking from a plane during an official visit to India, was clear about the importance of the Strait of Hormuz: “The strait has to be open, it will be open one way or another.” He classified the Iranian actions as illegal, unsustainable for the world, and unacceptable.
That day, talks were underway in Qatar, and the Secretary expressed hope for progress.
“It’s an exchange of ideas about the specific language of the initial document,” he added, noting that President Donald Trump wants a good deal or no deal at all.
Trump, in turn, used his social media account Truth Social to reinforce his position.
He reiterated that Iran must hand over its enriched uranium as part of any agreement.
The president wrote that this “nuclear dust” must be immediately handed over to the United States to be destroyed or, preferably, disposed of on-site in coordination with Iran, with witnesses to the process.
In another post, he countered criticism of the potential agreement, stating that it will either be “big and significant” or it simply won’t exist.
The terms under discussion include the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, the easing of sanctions to allow Iran to resume oil exports, and an Iranian commitment not to advance its nuclear program.
These events are taking place at a time of balanced tension with diplomatic efforts.
The United States seeks to protect its interests and troops without interrupting negotiations that could lead to a broader and more lasting solution in the region.
The targeted military action demonstrates a determination to respond to immediate threats, while diplomacy remains active to prevent a further escalation.
This episode reinforces the complexity of the relationship with Iran, where security, the global economy, and regional stability are intertwined.
The world is closely watching the next steps, hoping that a balance between force and dialogue will prevail.
Published in 05/26/2026 11h10
Text adapted by AI (Grok) and translated via Google API in the English version. Images from public image libraries or credits in the caption.
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