The Trump administration is working to finalize a potential agreement with Iran to end the conflict, even as U.S. military forces conducted defensive strikes in the Persian Gulf region.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that discussions are underway in Qatar to reach a settlement. The negotiations come amid heightened military tensions, with American forces operating in the region to protect commercial shipping and enforce security measures.
Military Operations Amid Diplomacy
U.S. Central Command carried out what it described as defensive strikes in southern Iran on Monday, targeting missile launch sites and Iranian vessels attempting to deploy mines in the waterway. “Central Command continues to defend our forces while using restraint during the ongoing cease-fire,” said Captain Tim Hawkins, a Central Command spokesperson.
The operations involved dozens of American warplanes and nearly two dozen Navy warships, including two aircraft carriers positioned to maintain security in the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea. The strikes targeted areas near the Iranian port and navy base at Bandar Abbas.
Negotiation Progress and Sticking Points
Iranian officials acknowledged Monday that Tehran and Washington have reached understandings on multiple subjects but cautioned that a final agreement remains distant. An Iranian negotiator stated, “But to say that this means the signing of an agreement is imminent-no one can make such a claim,” while accusing the United States of altering its negotiating positions.
A senior U.S. official indicated that the Trump administration views the diplomatic process favorably, noting that Iran appears more receptive to reaching an agreement following the military operation. The official added that most parties agree on fundamental principles, though specific details continue to be refined.
Key Terms Under Discussion
A central provision under negotiation would require Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for the U.S. lifting its blockade on Iranian ports. President Trump stated that any deal reached would be “a good and proper one,” departing from what he characterized as ineffective previous agreements.
Trump criticized the Obama administration’s 2015 nuclear accord, stating it provided Iran with “massive amounts of CASH, and a clear and open path to a Nuclear Weapon.” Officials indicated the current negotiations aim to produce a more comprehensive and enforceable arrangement than the earlier agreement, with emphasis on long-term compliance mechanisms rather than time limitations.
This story has been updated. CNN’s national security team contributed to this report.
