US Central Command (Centcom) says its forces have shot down four Iranian one-way attack drones that it claims posed a threat near the Strait of Hormuz.
According to Centcom, a site in Bandar Abbas was also struck just as it was preparing to launch a fifth drone. Iranian media reported hearing explosions east of the city following the incident.
The strikes come during what officials describe as a fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran, as negotiations continue to end a three-month conflict that has severely disrupted shipping routes and pushed global energy prices higher.
This marks the second US strike on Iranian targets in three days, with Washington saying the operations are purely defensive and carried out in response to threats against its forces. Centcom described the actions as “measured” and aimed at maintaining the ceasefire.
Earlier in the week, US forces confirmed another round of strikes on southern Iran, targeting missile sites and vessels allegedly preparing to deploy mines in the Strait of Hormuz. The waterway remains heavily affected, with thousands of commercial ships reportedly stranded due to ongoing tensions.
Iran strongly condemned the latest strikes, calling them a violation of the ceasefire and warning that it will respond to any further aggression.
Meanwhile, Kuwait’s military reported intercepting hostile missile and drone threats, though it did not provide additional details.
The US Treasury has also imposed new sanctions on Iran’s “Persian Gulf Strait Authority,” warning that ships paying fees to the body could face sanctions themselves.
The Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant portion of the world’s oil and gas passes, has become a major flashpoint in the conflict, with disruptions impacting global energy markets.
Iran maintains that its collection of fees is for navigational services and says it will continue managing traffic through the waterway.
US officials, including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, accused Iran of attempting to pressure global trade routes, while Iran’s Revolutionary Guard claimed it has shot down a US drone and engaged incoming aircraft, though details remain unclear.
Former US President Donald Trump said Iran is “negotiating on fumes” and hinted that military action could resume if no agreement is reached, while also stating that Tehran is interested in a deal but progress remains slow.
Diplomatic talks continue, but both sides have signalled that while progress has been made, a final agreement is not yet close.
The situation remains highly volatile, with analysts warning that renewed clashes could further destabilize global shipping and energy markets.
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