US and Iran exchange fire despite ceasefire

The United States and Iran exchanged military fire on Thursday in the most serious confrontation since a ceasefire between the two countries began last month, raising fresh concerns about stability in the Gulf region and the future of ongoing negotiations.

Iran’s military accused the United States of targeting two ships near the Strait of Hormuz and launching airstrikes on areas around Qeshm Island and nearby coastal cities. Iranian officials said the attacks violated the ceasefire agreement that took effect on April 7. In response, Tehran said its forces targeted U.S. naval vessels operating east of the Strait of Hormuz and near the port of Chabahar.

The U.S. military confirmed that American forces responded after Iranian missiles, drones, and small boats approached three Navy destroyers in the region. According to U.S. Central Command, none of its military assets were damaged during the exchange. The Pentagon stated that the strikes were defensive and aimed at missile and drone launch sites linked to Iranian operations.

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Despite the escalation, both sides signaled that they do not want a wider conflict. President Donald Trump described the ceasefire as still active and said negotiations with Iran were continuing. He also claimed that Tehran had agreed in principle that it would not develop nuclear weapons, although no formal agreement has been announced.

Iran later reported that conditions around the Strait of Hormuz had returned to normal after several hours of tensions and exchanges of fire.

The renewed hostilities affected global markets, with oil prices rising sharply amid fears of disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global energy supplies. Analysts say uncertainty remains high as diplomatic talks continue alongside military tensions in the region.