The United States carried out “self-defense” strikes in southern Iran on Monday. The strikes targeted missile launch sites and Iranian vessels attempting to establish mines, according to a statement from U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM).

Captain Tim Hawkins, CENTCOM spokesman, informed Newsweek that the actions were taken to safeguard U.S. troops from threats by Iranian forces. He stated, “U.S. forces conducted self-defense strikes in southern Iran today to protect our troops from threats posed by Iranian forces. Targets included missile launch sites and Iranian boats attempting to emplace mines.”

CENTCOM reiterated its commitment to defending U.S. forces while exercising restraint amidst the ongoing ceasefire.

“The U.S. Central Command continues to defend our forces while using restraint during the ongoing ceasefire,” the statement concluded.

These military actions coincide with comments from President Donald Trump. On Monday, he posted on Truth Social, indicating that negotiations with Iran are progressing well.

Trump mentioned, “It will only be a Great Deal for all or, no Deal at all — Back to the Battlefront and shooting, but bigger and stronger than ever before — And nobody wants that!”

The president also urged certain Middle Eastern countries to join the Abraham Accords. He referred to the United States’ efforts in resolving the complexities of diplomatic relations in the region.

This story is developing and will be updated as more information becomes available.