US Iran War News Live Updates: US strikes Iran missile sites; Rubio says Hormuz to stay open ‘one way or the other’
United States forces said they have attacked missile launch sites and mine-laying vessels in southern Iran. (File Photo)
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.
Latest developments
US strikes in Iran: US forces hit missile launch sites and mine-laying vessels in southern Iran, calling them “self-defence” strikes. Iranian media earlier reported explosions in Bandar Abbas.
Negotiations in Qatar: Top Iranian negotiators traveled to Qatar to discuss sticking points in a potential deal to end the US-Israel war on Iran. Iran’s Foreign Ministry said progress has been made but a deal is not “imminent.”
Trump on regional role: US President Donald Trump said an agreement with Iran should include Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkiye joining the Abraham Accords to normalize ties with Israel.
Israel targets Hezbollah: Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu ordered “strong blows” against Hezbollah in Lebanon, stating Israel is “at war” with the group.
Lebanon casualties rise: Lebanon’s Health Ministry said Israeli attacks have killed at least 3,185 people and wounded 9,633 since March 2, with intensified strikes hitting the Bekaa Valley and southern Lebanon.
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