The United States said it shot down two Iranian drones that were allegedly threatening shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, marking a further escalation in tensions as the conflict reached its 100th day.
US Central Command also reported separate strikes on additional drones and coastal surveillance radar sites. The exchange came amid ongoing tit-for-tat attacks between Iran and US-aligned forces, with both sides accusing the other of violating a fragile ceasefire framework.
Pakistan has reportedly been acting as a mediator, with its interior minister delivering messages between Iranian leadership and Pakistani and US officials. Diplomacy has continued in parallel with military activity, but negotiations remain stalled.
Iran fired missiles toward US allies Bahrain and Kuwait, prompting strong reactions from Gulf states. Iranian officials condemned the US strikes as violations of sovereignty, while US sources suggested frozen Iranian assets could be used to help Gulf partners repair damage from attacks.
At the same time, the wider regional conflict continues to expand. Fighting involving Israel and Hezbollah-linked forces in Lebanon has continued despite ceasefire attempts, with casualties reported on both sides. Israel says its operations target militant groups, while Lebanon reports civilian and military deaths from strikes.
Overall, the situation remains volatile, with ongoing military exchanges across multiple fronts and no clear breakthrough in peace talks.
