US Iran War News Live Updates: US says it carried out ‘self-defence’ strikes in Iran as talks continue
President Donald Trump speaks during the 158th National Memorial Day Observance coinciding with the nation’s 250th anniversary, at the Memorial Amphitheater in Arlington National Cemetery. (Photo: AP)
US Iran War LIVE: The US military said Monday it launched “self-defense” strikes in southern Iran targeting missile launch sites and boats laying mines, even as President Donald Trump posted on social media that negotiations were “proceeding nicely.” Capt. Tim Hawkins, US Central Command spokesman, said the strikes were conducted “to protect our troops from threats posed by Iranian forces,” adding that the military was “using restraint during the ongoing ceasefire.”
Any deal must meet US standards, says Rubio: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said negotiations with Iran remain ongoing, describing the proposed agreement as “pretty solid” while cautioning that discussions are still a work in progress. Speaking during a visit to India, Rubio underscored that President Donald Trump is not rushing into a deal, insisting any agreement must meet US standards. Rubio said the current framework under discussion includes provisions related to Iran’s potential to open up the Strait of Hormuz and engage in meaningful, time-bound negotiations over its nuclear programme.
Trump ‘not going to make a bad deal’: Reiterating the administration’s cautious stance, Rubio stressed that Trump would not rush the process. “The president is not going to make a bad agreement, so let’s see what happens,” he said. “We’re going to give diplomacy every chance to succeed before we explore the alternatives.” His remarks come as Trump earlier indicated that a deal with Iran is not “fully negotiated yet,” signalling lingering differences between the two sides.
Cautious tone in Washington: Officials in Washington have suggested that while progress is being made, finalising an agreement could still take several days. The administration has maintained a measured approach amid uncertainty surrounding key sticking points.
Latest developments
- Deal not finalised: Trump says the Iran agreement is still not “fully negotiated,” highlighting unresolved issues.
- Diplomatic push continues: Rubio emphasises ongoing talks with global and regional support for the proposal.
- No rush from US: The White House signals Trump is willing to wait rather than accept a weak deal.
- Regional tensions rise: Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon have killed at least two people and injured several others.
- Arab backlash: Eight Arab and Muslim nations condemn Israeli minister Itamar Ben-Gvir over alleged abuse of Gaza flotilla activists.
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