The US and Iran have reported a new exchange of strikes
US Central Command has reported strikes on Iranian radar installations and drone command and control centres in the Horuk area and on Qeshm Island.
According to CENTCOM, the operation took place over the weekend in response to the downing of an American MQ-1 drone, which was on a mission over international waters.
The command stated that US fighter jets destroyed Iranian air defence systems, a ground control station and two attack drones, which, according to military assessments, posed a threat to vessels in regional waters.
CENTCOM emphasised that no American service personnel were injured during the operation.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps stated that, in response, Iranian forces had attacked the US airbase used by the US to carry out the strikes. However, Tehran did not specify which facility was targeted.
Kuwait’s state news agency KUNA reported that the country’s air defence systems had intercepted missiles and drones.
The exchange of strikes took place against the backdrop of the current ceasefire, which had previously been announced by US President Donald Trump.
According to The New York Times, over the past three weeks, US Central Command has helped 70 commercial vessels pass through the Strait of Hormuz, which is being blocked by Iran.
The publication notes that most vessels switched off their transponders whilst passing through to avoid detection. US officials have not disclosed the exact routes taken, but analysts estimate that some of the vessels passed closer to the coast of Oman.
The New York Times also points out that before the US and Israeli operation against Iran began in late February, more than 100 commercial vessels passed through the Strait of Hormuz every day. Therefore, the current passages coordinated by the US do not indicate a full resumption of shipping in the region.
Meanwhile, talks are continuing between Washington and Tehran regarding a possible peaceful settlement. According to Axios, on 31 May, Donald Trump insisted on clarifying the provisions of a future agreement relating to enriched uranium. At the same time, the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that talks with the United States were continuing.
