The Kabul Tribune (KT) — Reuters has reported that the United States and Iran exchanged fire on Thursday in the most serious test of their month-long ceasefire, though both sides signaled they did not seek further escalation.
According to the report, Iran said the situation had returned to normal following hours of hostilities, while U.S. officials stated they were responding defensively to Iranian attacks. The clashes reportedly began as Washington awaited Tehran’s response to a U.S. proposal aimed at ending the conflict, although key issues such as Iran’s nuclear program remain unresolved.
Iran’s military accused the U.S. of targeting vessels entering the Strait of Hormuz and conducting strikes on Iranian territory. In response, U.S. forces said they carried out defensive actions after coming under attack involving missiles, drones and small boats targeting naval vessels.
Donald Trump told reporters that the ceasefire remained in place and downplayed the confrontation, while confirming that negotiations with Iran were ongoing.
Iranian military officials, however, accused the U.S. of violating the ceasefire by targeting an oil tanker and conducting airstrikes on civilian areas, including Qeshm Island and coastal regions such as Bandar Khamir and Sirik. They said Iran retaliated by targeting U.S. military vessels near the strait and south of Chabahar.
U.S. Central Command said none of its assets were hit and reiterated that it does not seek escalation but remains ready to protect American forces.
Despite the tensions, both sides indicated that diplomatic efforts continue. Trump said a potential agreement could be reached at any time, though he acknowledged uncertainty over whether a deal would be finalized.
The renewed hostilities have also affected global markets, with oil prices rising amid concerns over disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global energy supplies.
