In a striking juxtaposition of military force and diplomatic effort, the United States conducted a series of "defensive" strikes in southern Iran on Monday, even as high-level negotiations to end a three-month-old war continued in Qatar.
According to the US Central Command, the operations targeted missile launch sites and vessels that were allegedly attempting to lay mines. Navy Captain Tim Hawkins, a spokesperson for the command, emphasized that the US continues to defend its forces while maintaining restraint during the current ceasefire.
While military tensions flared, the diplomatic machinery remained in motion in Doha. Iran's foreign minister and top negotiator met with Qatar's prime minister to hammer out a potential deal to bring the conflict to a close. These discussions focused on critical security issues, including the stability of the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's stockpile of highly enriched uranium.
Financial incentives are also a central part of the dialogue. The governor of Iran's central bank attended the meetings to discuss the potential release of frozen Iranian funds, a move that could serve as a cornerstone for a final agreement.
US President Donald Trump addressed the situation via Truth Social on Monday, noting that while talks are progressing "nicely," there is little room for compromise. He warned that further attacks could occur if the negotiations fail, stating that the outcome must be a "Great Deal for all, or no Deal at all."
Reports from the Washington Post, citing an Iranian official, suggest that a first phase of a potential agreement could include the release of $12 billion in frozen Iranian assets, the lifting of the US blockade, and the commencement of minesweeping operations in the Strait of Hormuz. However, the official noted that this initial phase would not include a comprehensive nuclear agreement.
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US launches fresh strikes on Iran as talks to end war proceed
cgtn.com
