Washington: The conflict between the United States and Iran intensified again after American forces carried out fresh military strikes near Iran’s southern port city of Bandar Abbas, even as diplomatic efforts to end months of hostilities continued in Qatar.
According to US Central Command, the operation targeted missile launch facilities and small naval vessels allegedly attempting to deploy mines in strategic waters near the Strait of Hormuz. American officials described the action as a defensive response aimed at protecting US personnel and maintaining security in the region.
Bandar Abbas, home to one of Iran’s most critical naval installations, witnessed multiple explosions late Monday. Iranian state media confirmed unusual activity in the area, while local defence systems were reportedly activated following what officials described as hostile aerial movement near the city’s airport and surrounding coastal belt.
The latest military action unfolded at a sensitive moment, with senior Iranian officials engaged in negotiations in Doha to discuss possible terms for ending the prolonged conflict that has disrupted energy markets and heightened instability across the Middle East.
Iranian representatives, including top diplomats and financial officials, are understood to be discussing issues linked to sanctions relief, maritime access through the Strait of Hormuz, and the future of Tehran’s enriched uranium reserves. While progress has reportedly been made, Iranian officials have indicated that major differences remain unresolved.
Shortly after news of the strikes emerged, US President Donald Trump issued a strongly worded statement demanding that Iran surrender its stockpile of enriched uranium for destruction under international supervision. He suggested the material should either be transferred to the United States or dismantled within Iran under external monitoring.
The warning has added further uncertainty to already fragile negotiations, with no immediate response from Tehran on Trump’s latest demand.
Iran’s newly appointed security leadership responded with defiance, declaring that the country would not back down under military or political pressure. Officials insisted that Iran had strengthened both its defence posture and diplomatic strategy during the ceasefire period.
The broader regional situation remains tense, as concerns grow over the possibility that further escalation could affect global oil supply routes. The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most crucial energy transit corridors, and any disruption there continues to send shockwaves through international markets.
With diplomacy and military pressure now unfolding side by side, the coming days are expected to determine whether negotiations can produce a lasting agreement or if the conflict enters another dangerous phase.
