Fresh military strikes were reported over the weekend as the United States and Iran exchanged attacks around the Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns about the fragile ceasefire and ongoing negotiations aimed at ending months of conflict.
The US military said it carried out what it described as self-defence strikes on Iranian military facilities, targeting radar installations and drone command centres in Goruk and on Qeshm Island.
According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), the operation was launched after Iran allegedly shot down an American MQ-1 drone flying over international waters.
The military said its fighter jets also struck air defence systems, a ground control station and two drones it claimed posed a threat to vessels operating in regional waters.
CENTCOM added that no American personnel were injured during the operation.
Iran, however, responded by saying its Revolutionary Guard Corps had launched retaliatory strikes against an air base used by US forces.
Iranian officials said the attack targeted a communications tower on Sirri Island in the Gulf, about 65 kilometres off Iran’s southern coast.
The IRGC warned that any further military action by the United States would be met with a stronger response.
Iranian state-linked media quoted military officials as saying Tehran’s reaction would be “completely different” if similar attacks occurred again.
Meanwhile, Kuwait’s military announced that its air defence systems were intercepting what it described as hostile missiles and drones, although it did not specify where the threats originated.
The latest exchange comes despite a ceasefire that took effect on April 8. While both Washington and Tehran have continued negotiations, no permanent agreement has been reached.
US President Donald Trump has repeatedly expressed optimism about the talks, suggesting a deal may be close.
However, recent reports indicate negotiations remain complicated. American media outlets reported that Trump requested changes to a proposed agreement, including provisions relating to the Strait of Hormuz and Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium.
Iran dismissed reports about the proposed revisions as speculation.
A draft framework reportedly under discussion includes a 60-day halt in hostilities, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to international shipping, and a roadmap for renewed talks on Iran’s nuclear programme.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most strategically important waterways, with roughly 20 percent of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments passing through it. Continued disruptions in the region have increased pressure on energy markets and fuel prices worldwide.
Despite diplomatic efforts, the latest military exchanges highlight how far both sides remain from reaching a lasting settlement.
