Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz escalated following a military clash between the United States and Iran, despite ongoing negotiations reportedly close to producing an agreement. Iranian media said at least four people were killed in an Israeli-U.S. airstrike on Iranian boats near Larak Island. The Revolutionary Guard announced it had downed a U.S. MQ-9 drone after precise intelligence tracking.
A U.S. official told Al Jazeera that Iran attempted attacks on American forces over the past 24 hours, though none caused casualties. CENTCOM stated U.S. forces carried out self-defense strikes in southern Iran, targeting missile platforms and boats laying mines. Both sides described their actions as defensive.
Military strategist Brigadier General Elias Hanna characterized the current phase as a “warrior’s pause,” noting Iran is preparing for the next stage regardless of negotiations, aiming to assert full sovereignty over Hormuz. Despite the escalation, Hanna ruled out a return to war, calling this the second clash since the ceasefire. He highlighted U.S. repositioning and noted France deployed the Charles de Gaulle carrier and Britain sent a destroyer, not for combat but for mine-clearing and tanker protection.
Hanna stressed that stability does not require warships, underscoring the strategic interests of powers like France, which maintains a naval base in the UAE. Meanwhile, negotiations continue amid talk of a near agreement. AFP quoted U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio saying a deal with Iran remains possible within days despite recent strikes. President Donald Trump said talks are progressing well, insisting any deal must be “great for everyone or no deal at all.”
Al Jazeera sources reported Qatari mediation produced a U.S.-Iranian understanding on frozen Iranian assets. Iran’s Foreign Ministry accused Washington of violating the ceasefire during diplomacy, calling it proof of bad faith.
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