
The US military has carried out fresh strikes in southern Iran, targeting missile sites and boats that were allegedly attempting to lay naval mines, according to US Central Command.
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In a statement, Central Command said the operation was conducted in “self-defence” and aimed at protecting American troops from threats posed by Iranian forces.
A spokesperson for the command said US forces were continuing to defend personnel in the region while showing restraint during what it described as an ongoing ceasefire.
The latest attacks come amid continuing diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran to end the conflict that has spread across the Middle East in recent months.
Speaking on Monday, Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Esmail Baqai said negotiators had made progress in discussions with the United States, but warned that an agreement was still not close.
“It is correct to say that we have reached a conclusion on a large portion of the issues under discussion,” Baqai said. “But to say that this means the signing of an agreement is imminent — no-one can make such a claim.”
Iran has not yet publicly responded to the latest US strikes. It remains unclear whether the attacks could affect ongoing negotiations between the two sides.
Diplomatic efforts
At the weekend, President Donald Trump suggested that Washington and Tehran were nearing a deal. However, he later said he had instructed negotiators “not to rush into” an agreement.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also said on Monday that a breakthrough remained possible.
The conflict began after the US and Israel launched large-scale strikes on Iran on 28 February. Tehran responded with attacks on Israel and Gulf states allied with Washington.
Regional impact
Iran also effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important shipping routes for oil exports. The disruption caused a sharp rise in global oil prices and increased concerns about wider instability in the region.
Fighting and military exchanges have continued despite diplomatic contacts between the two sides, with both Washington and Tehran accusing each other of escalating tensions.
Adapted by ASEAN Now. Compiled from various sources. 26 May 2026
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