American forces have attacked boats attempting to lay mines in the vicinity of the Strait of Hormuz and missile-launch sites in Iran, as per U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM).
But the U.S. denied this meant the end of the ceasefire, characterising the strikes as “defensive” in nature. Spokesman Captain Tim Hawkins said in a statement yesterday (Monday): “US Central Command continues to defend our forces while using restraint during the ongoing ceasefire.”
The air strikes took place near the southern port city Bandar Abbas, home to an Iranian naval base that sits on the Strait of Hormuz.
Meanwhile, new talks between the two sides have begun in Qatar but both sides have played down hopes for an imminent peace deal.
A Memorandum of Understanding reportedly being negotiated would see Iran relax restrictions on commercial shipping transiting the Strait of Hormuz, but would not immediately include negotiations over any nuclear issues.
Talks over Iran’s nuclear programme would then take place within 60 days of any agreement, as per sources cited in media reports.
CENTCOM said it had now reached the 100 commercial vessels milestone while enforcing a maritime blockade against Iran.
It noted: “Over the past six weeks, more than 15,000 Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and Airmen have redirected 100 vessels, disabled four, and allowed 26 humanitarian aid ships to pass.”
“Our service members are doing extraordinary work” said Adm. Brad Cooper, CENTCOM commander. “They have been highly effective by executing the mission with precision and professionalism, allowing zero trade into and out of Iranian ports which has squeezed Iran economically.“
More than U.S. 200 aircraft and warships are supporting the mission, including the Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group, George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group, Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group/31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, and multiple guided-missile destroyers.
- You can read CENTCOM’s latest updates on its X social media feed