US attacks missile sites in Iran despite ceasefire, says it acted to defend troops

US forces launched strikes against missile sites in southern Iran and against boats involved in laying mines, according to US Central Command. The military stated these were "self-defense strikes" conducted to protect American troops from threats posed by Iranian forces. The attacks targeted missile launch sites and boats attempting to "emplace mines."

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US forces conducted self-defense strikes in southern Iran today to protect our troops from threats posed by Iranian forces.

The strikes occurred at a critical juncture, as top Iranian negotiators arrived in Doha to participate in the latest round of talks aimed at ending a war that has significantly disrupted the global economy and energy supplies. The timing of the US action has cast new doubt on a fragile ceasefire that began April 8.

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There were some talks going on in Qatar today, so we'll see if we can make progress. I think it's a lot of talking back and forth going on about specific language in the initial document, so it'll take a few days.

Despite the military action, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed optimism that a deal with Iran remains within reach. Speaking in India, Rubio indicated that discussions were ongoing in Qatar and that progress might be made in the coming days. He reiterated the US stance that the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping route, must remain open, declaring that "What's happening there is unlawful, it's illegal, it's unsustainable for the world, it's unacceptable."

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The Strait of Hormuz... is going to be open one way or another.

President Donald Trump also commented on the situation via social media, stating that talks with Iran were progressing "nicely." However, he warned of further action if a satisfactory agreement was not reached, emphasizing his desire for "a Great Deal for all, or no Deal at all."

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What's happening there is unlawful, it's illegal, it's unsustainable for the world, it's unacceptable.