US forces reportedly carried out fresh strikes near Iran’s southern port city of Bandar Abbas, targeting missile launch facilities and mine-laying boats close to the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing tensions and fragile ceasefire discussions between Washington and Tehran. US Central Command described the operation as a “self-defense” action aimed at protecting American forces and commercial shipping routes.
The strikes came shortly after former US President Donald Trump issued a stern warning regarding Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile. Trump reportedly insisted that Iran must either surrender or destroy its enriched uranium, warning that failure to comply could lead to more severe consequences. In public remarks, he said the uranium could be turned into “nuclear dust” if negotiations collapse.
According to reports, explosions were heard in and around Bandar Abbas, a strategically important port city near the Strait of Hormuz — one of the world’s busiest oil shipping routes. US officials claimed Iranian vessels were attempting to place naval mines in the area, posing risks to international maritime traffic.
Iran has strongly condemned the attacks, calling them a violation of international law and warning of possible retaliation. At the same time, diplomatic talks reportedly continue behind the scenes, with negotiators attempting to prevent a wider regional conflict.
The renewed confrontation has once again raised concerns over instability in the Middle East, global oil supply disruptions, and the future of negotiations surrounding Iran’s nuclear programme.
