US military attacks Iran targets for fifth night as Trump remains open to diplomacy

The U.S. military has carried out attacks on targets in Iran for the fifth night in a row, according to U.S. Central Command (Centcom). These actions are intended to further weaken Iran's military capabilities.

Meanwhile, the White House reiterated that President Donald Trump is still prepared for diplomatic discussions with Iran. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that while the U.S. is open to talks, it will respond to any Iranian attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz. "The president will not allow them to shoot at ships in the strait without suffering consequences," Leavitt said.

Relations between Washington and Tehran have become increasingly strained since mid-June, despite a memorandum of understanding signed to end the conflict. The situation escalated recently with Iranian attacks on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, prompting U.S. military responses. In response, the U.S. reimposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports on Tuesday.

Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps has declared the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until U.S. attacks cease. Reports suggest Iran may also close other regional oil export routes. According to unnamed sources cited by Reuters, Tehran has urged Houthi rebels in Yemen to prepare for potential disruptions to oil transport through the Red Sea if the U.S. targets Iran's energy infrastructure.

“

The president will not allow them to shoot at ships in the strait without suffering consequences.