US President Donald Trump insisted on Friday that a ceasefire remains in effect with Iran, following a direct exchange of fire between Iranian forces and US naval destroyers in the Strait of Hormuz. Although both nations blame the other for the escalation, the US President signaled that diplomatic paths remain open.
The confrontation began when Iranian forces launched missiles, drones, and small boats against three US warships. US Central Command (Centcom) labeled the incident an “unprovoked attack.” Trump responded on Truth Social, stating that Iran “trifled with us today.” He further described the destruction of several small boats which “dropped ever so beautifully down to the Ocean, very much like a butterfly dropping to its grave!”
In contrast, Iran’s military command alleged that the US targeted an Iranian oil tanker and other vessels. They also claimed US “aerial attacks” struck coastal areas near Bandar Khamir and Qeshm Island. Iran accused the US of a “violation of the ceasefire” and claimed their forces inflicted “significant damage” on American vessels.
Centcom confirmed it “eliminated inbound threats and targeted Iranian military facilities.” However, they clarified that the US “does not seek escalation.” Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates reported that its air defences were “actively engaging” incoming threats, highlighting the widening regional impact.
Diplomacy Under Pressure
This flare-up occurred just one day after Tehran began considering a US proposal to end the conflict. Despite the violence, Washington believes it is nearing a 14-point memorandum of understanding. Pakistani mediators are currently facilitating these discussions to convert the temporary truce into a permanent peace.
Nevertheless, internal opposition in Tehran remains strong, as Ebrahim Rezaei, a senior Iranian official, warned that Iran “has its finger on the trigger.” He threatened a “harsh and regret-inducing response” if the US does not meet specific conditions.
Trump remains firm on his deadline for a signature. He reiterated his warning, “Just like we knocked them out again today, we’ll knock them out a lot harder, and a lot more violently, in the future, if they don’t get their Deal signed, FAST!” While Trump claims Iran has agreed to never possess a nuclear weapon, Tehran has not yet confirmed such a commitment.
