Trump insists truce is still active
US President Donald Trump has insisted that the US-Iran ceasefire remains in effect, despite renewed accusations of violations and escalating military tensions in the Middle East.
Tehran accused Washington of breaking the truce following US strikes on what were described as Iranian military installations, prompting further exchanges in the Gulf region.
Military strikes in Strait of Hormuz
According to the US military, American forces targeted Iranian military facilities after what it described as “unprovoked” attacks on three US naval destroyers passing through the Strait of Hormuz toward the Gulf of Oman.
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said the response included strikes on missile launch sites, drone facilities, command centres and intelligence infrastructure.
Officials stressed that no US vessels were hit during the incident.
Iran disputes ceasefire violations
Iran’s military leadership accused Washington of violating the US-Iran ceasefire, claiming that US forces targeted vessels near the Strait of Hormuz, including an oil tanker.
Tehran said it responded immediately with strikes on US warships, claiming significant damage, although these claims were not independently verified.
Iranian state media reported explosions near the port of Qeshm, close to the strategic waterway.
Trump warns of further escalation
President Trump described the situation as “minor” and claimed US forces had effectively responded to the attacks.
He also warned that Iran must move quickly toward a formal agreement with Washington, adding that failure to do so could lead to “far stronger and more violent” action in the future.
Despite the tensions, Trump said the US-Iran ceasefire continues to be in force.
Diplomatic uncertainty continues
The ceasefire, reportedly in place since 8 April, remains fragile amid ongoing indirect negotiations and conflicting claims over compliance.
The US has reportedly been awaiting Iran’s response, via intermediaries, to its latest proposal aimed at ending the wider conflict in the Middle East.
Pakistan has been acting as a mediator in the process, while diplomatic contacts continue behind the scenes.
Oil markets and regional impact
Rising tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy route, have contributed to volatility in oil markets, although prices eased slightly in recent trading sessions.
Millions of tonnes of shipping traffic are reported to remain affected in the wider Gulf region as tensions persist.
The situation unfolds alongside broader instability in the Middle East, including ongoing tensions involving Lebanon and Israel, where ceasefire arrangements have also been repeatedly tested by continued hostilities.
Despite diplomatic efforts, the durability of the US-Iran ceasefire remains uncertain amid continued military activity and competing narratives from both sides.
Also read: Lebanon: Israeli soldier accused of desecrating Christian statue
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