JUST IN: US forces launches strikes in Iran

United States forces launched strikes on targets in southern Iran near the Strait of Hormuz on Monday, with the U.S. military describing the operation as an act of self-defence amid an ongoing ceasefire between both countries.

Captain Tim Hawkins, spokesperson for the U.S. Central Command, said the strikes targeted missile launch sites and Iranian boats.

The attacks were carried out in Bandar Abbas, a strategic coastal city near the Strait of Hormuz, according to a defence official.

Despite the military action, there was no indication that the temporary ceasefire between the United States and Iran, which took effect on April 8, had been suspended.

“Targets included missile launch sites and Iranian boats attempting to emplace mines,” Hawkins said. “U.S. Central Command continues to defend our forces while using restraint during the ongoing ceasefire.”

According to Reuters, semi-official Iranian media reported explosions in Bandar Abbas and nearby coastal areas close to the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran’s Mehr news agency also quoted officials as saying the situation in Bandar Abbas remained under control and there was no cause for alarm.

ALSO READ: White House shooting another assassination attempt on Trump — DOJ

The latest development comes as Tehran and Washington continue talks aimed at ending the conflict that started after U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28.

Earlier on Monday, Iran said a deal to end the war was not close, after President Donald Trump made conflicting remarks suggesting an agreement could soon be reached before later downplaying the possibility.

Trump also renewed calls for a resolution regarding Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile.

Trump in a post on social media said the material “will either be immediately turned over to the United States to be brought home and destroyed or, preferably, in conjunction and coordination with the Islamic Republic of Iran, destroyed in place or, at another acceptable location, with the Atomic Energy Commission, or its equivalent, being witness to this process and event.”

(NBC News)