US launches fresh strikes on Iran as talks to end war proceed

U.S. forces carried out strikes in southern Iran on Monday, targeting boats attempting to lay mines and missile launch sites. The U.S. Central Command described the actions as defensive, aimed at protecting troops amid an ongoing ceasefire.

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US Central Command continues to defend our forces while using restraint during the ongoing ceasefire.

These strikes occurred as Iran's top negotiator and foreign minister were in Doha for talks with Qatar's prime minister regarding a potential deal with the U.S. to end a three-month war. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that diplomacy would be given every chance to succeed. President Donald Trump, in a social media post, described the talks as proceeding "nicely" but issued a warning of fresh attacks if they failed, emphasizing that it would be "either a Great Deal for all, or no Deal at all."

Adding to regional tensions, Iran reported downing a "hostile" stealth drone with a new air defense system. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced an intensification of strikes against the Iran-backed Hezbollah militia in Lebanon. Israel's military subsequently stated it was attacking Hezbollah infrastructure in the eastern Bekaa Valley and other areas.

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It “will only be a Great Deal for all, or no Deal at all,”

Discussions in Doha reportedly focused on the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's enriched uranium stockpile. Iran's central bank governor also attended to discuss the potential release of frozen Iranian funds as part of a final deal. Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson indicated that nuclear issues would only be negotiated after a framework accord was agreed upon. Trump has stated his primary goal is to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons, a claim Tehran consistently denies.

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This is a sign from us that no more stealth drones can penetrate the skies of the Persian Gulf.