BBC
Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, has levied serious allegations against the United States, claiming that the US continually opts for a "reckless military adventure" instead of pursuing diplomatic avenues. Highlighting the tensions that have intensified in the Strait of Hormuz, Araghchi stated that Iranians will "never bow to pressure," following mutual accusations of attacks in the region.
His inquiry into whether US actions constitute a "crude pressure tactic" or a manipulation of President Donald Trump into a convoluted situation indicates the deepening mistrust.
In the midst of these hostilities, Trump has maintained that a ceasefire remains in place, designed to facilitate discussions aimed at resolving the conflict that escalated following US and Israeli actions initiated in February. According to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Iran's response to proposals from the US is expected on Friday. Rubio expressed hope for a constructive dialogue, saying, "I hope it's a serious offer, I really do," during his visit to Italy.
On Thursday, the US Central Command (Centcom) accused Iran of perpetrating an "unprovoked attack" by launching missiles, drones, and small boats against US warships. In contrast, Iranian military leadership alleged that the US targeted an Iranian oil tanker and another vessel approaching the Strait of Hormuz, in addition to conducting "aerial attacks" on various coastal regions.
Iran's control over the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz and their aggressive stance against US allies in the Gulf can be seen as retaliatory measures against the ongoing US and Israeli strikes. This waterway is critical for global oil and liquefied natural gas transport, with around 20% of the global supply flowing through it; any disruptions have led to significant increases in prices.
In a recent escalation, Trump initially initiated a military operation intended to assist approximately 2,000 vessels stranded in the area since February but later halted it. Concurrently, the US is enforcing a naval blockade on Iranian ports to compel Tehran to accept US terms.
Further conflict was reported on Friday, when a cargo vessel near Minab caught fire after being struck, as confirmed by local official Mohammad Radmehr to the Iranian state news agency, Mehr. Ten injured sailors were evacuated to a hospital, while search teams work to ascertain the condition of other crew members.
The United Arab Emirates, a key US ally that has faced numerous Iranian attacks, disclosed on Friday that its air defense systems intercepted two ballistic missiles and three UAVs launched from Iran, resulting in three moderate injuries among personnel.
President Trump later posted on Truth Social about the US actions, claiming that multiple small boats, missiles, and drones had been destroyed, stating "great damage" was inflicted on Iranian assailants. He further emphasized a decisive stance by suggesting, "Just like we knocked them out again today, we'll knock them out a lot harder, and a lot more violently, in the future, if they don't get their Deal signed, FAST!"
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