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US forces struck Iranian coastal radar sites on Saturday, a day after intercepting four Iranian drones that the US military believes were aimed at regional maritime traffic. The strikes, targeting surveillance sites in Goruk and Qeshm Island along the Strait of Hormuz, represent the latest escalation in a conflict that complicates efforts to end the wider regional war.

The US and Iran have been engaged in indirect negotiations for an interim deal to pause the three-month-old war, with further discussions planned on Iran's nuclear program. Key to any agreement for Tehran are access to frozen oil revenues, sanctions waivers on crude exports, the lifting of US port blockades, and leverage over the Strait of Hormuz. This vital waterway, through which about a fifth of the world's oil transited before the war, has seen Iran effectively block shipping.

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They have some missiles, they have some drones. I would say percentage wise, maybe 21%-22% of their missiles. It's a lot of missiles, but it's not what it was when we first attacked.

US President Donald Trump faces domestic pressure over rising gas prices to conclude the war. He told NBC News that while significant portions of Iran's drone and missile manufacturing capabilities have been destroyed, the country still retains a substantial arsenal. "They have some missiles, they have some drones. I would say percentage wise, maybe 21%-22% of their missiles. It's a lot of missiles, but it's not what it was when we first attacked," Trump stated. When questioned about Iran's reluctance to strike a deal despite perceived desperation, Trump attributed it to their pride and strength, suggesting they would eventually have no choice but to comply.

In a parallel development, Iran-aligned Hezbollah reported carrying out two attacks on Israeli troops in southern Lebanon, including near Beaufort Castle. Lebanese security services confirmed Israeli airstrikes hit towns in the same region. Iran has reiterated its support for Hezbollah and made a ceasefire between the group and Israel a prerequisite for any peace deal with Washington. This condition also extends to resuming shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The current round of fighting between Hezbollah and Israel began in early March, two days after the US and Israel initiated strikes against Iran, with Hezbollah stating its actions were in solidarity with Tehran.

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Because they are strong. They're proud. There are things they never thought they'd be doing that they're going to have to do, they've got no choice, and it takes a little while.