The United States military carried out strikes in southern Iran, targeting missile launch sites and boats that were reportedly trying to lay mines near the Strait of Hormuz, according to the US Central Command (CENTCOM). The operation took place near Bandar Abbas, on one of the world’s most important shipping routes.
#BREAKING: US Centcom says the strikes were designed "to protect our troops from threats posed by Iranian forces". https://t.co/AxZhNsKUa2
— ABC News (@abcnews) May 25, 2026
CENTCOM spokesperson Capt. Tim Hawkins said the strikes were carried out as a “self-defence” measure to protect American forces from threats posed by Iranian units. He added that the US military was still showing restraint despite taking action during the ongoing ceasefire period.
“The strikes were conducted to defend our troops,” Hawkins said.
Ceasefire still in place despite strikes
Even after the operation, there was no sign that the ceasefire between the two sides had collapsed. The ceasefire has been in effect since April, after fighting that started in late February following US and Israeli strikes on Iran.
Iranian media reported explosions near Bandar Abbas after the strikes, but officials later said the situation was under control. Details about the exact threat, damage caused, or targets hit have not yet been fully shared.
Talks continue as Trump pushes broader deal
The military action came while diplomatic talks between Washington and Tehran are still underway. US President Donald Trump said negotiations with Iran were “proceeding nicely”, but also pushed for a wider regional agreement.
Trump said countries including Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Turkey, Egypt and Jordan should join the Abraham Accords aimed at normalising ties with Israel.
However, the proposal could make the negotiations more difficult. Saudi Arabia has linked normalisation with progress on Palestinian statehood, while Pakistan does not have diplomatic relations with Israel.
Trump also repeated his demand that Iran’s enriched uranium stock should either be removed or destroyed under international supervision. This issue remains one of the biggest points in the ongoing talks. Former Pakistani ambassador Masood Khan said the proposal adds a new dimension to the diplomatic process as negotiations continue.
