Clashes between US and Iranian forces near the Strait of Hormuz on 25 May underscored rising tensions between the two sides, even as both governments publicly signal progress toward an interim peace arrangement.
The strikes reportedly occurred just hours after US President Donald Trump reiterated that talks with Tehran aimed at extending the ceasefire and reopening the Strait were moving forward. Shortly before the incident, Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei issued a statement warning that “the nations and lands of the region will no longer be a shield for American bases.”
The developments highlight the uncertainty that has persisted throughout negotiations since the ceasefire was established in early April.
As reported, the US military said that it carried out self-defence strikes in southern Iran targeting missile launch sites and boats allegedly preparing to lay mines. In response, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it fired on an F-35 fighter jet and several drones after they entered Iranian airspace.
The IRGC claimed it shot down an MQ-9 Reaper drone and forced other aircraft to retreat. Iranian state media, including Nour News, reported that several personnel were killed in strikes on vessels near Larak Island in the Strait of Hormuz, though no further details were provided.