WASHINGTON — The United States and Iran exchanged strikes in the Gulf region on Saturday, further testing a fragile ceasefire that has held since early April, U.S. and Iranian officials said.
U.S. Central Command said American forces struck Iranian coastal radar sites and other military targets after intercepting drones launched toward the Strait of Hormuz. Iran described the U.S. action as a violation of the ceasefire and said it responded with missile and drone strikes targeting U.S. interests in the region, including bases in Kuwait and Bahrain.
The exchanges mark one of the most significant flare-ups since the Pakistan-brokered ceasefire took effect on April 8 following weeks of intense conflict that began with U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran in late February. Details on casualties from the latest incidents remained unclear early Sunday.
Iranian officials condemned the U.S. strikes as a “flagrant violation” of the truce. A senior Iranian diplomat said the attacks undermined ongoing diplomatic efforts, according to state media.
The U.S. military described its actions as defensive measures to protect forces and maritime traffic. “We will not tolerate threats to our personnel or freedom of navigation in international waters,” a Pentagon spokesperson said.
The ceasefire, initially set for two weeks, has been extended indefinitely but faced repeated strains, including disputes over the Strait of Hormuz and broader regional tensions involving Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Negotiations for a longer-term agreement have continued intermittently, with key issues including Iran’s nuclear program, frozen assets, and sanctions relief. Progress has been limited, officials from both sides have acknowledged.
The latest violence comes amid efforts to stabilize the region and ease disruptions to global oil flows caused by earlier restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz.
As of Sunday morning, no immediate further escalation was reported. Diplomatic channels remained active, with mediators continuing to urge restraint from all parties. House and Senate leaders in Washington were briefed on the developments, congressional aides said.
