U.S. and Iran exchange new strikes amid ongoing negotiations

The U.S. and Iran reported new military actions over the weekend, marking the latest exchange of hostilities as negotiations continue to seek an end to the conflict that began nearly three months ago, Reuters reported.

The U.S. military said it carried out strikes on Iranian military targets along the country’s Gulf coast after what it described as aggressive actions by Iran, including the downing of a U.S. MQ-1 drone operating over international waters. According to U.S. Central Command, the operation targeted Iranian air defense systems, a ground control station, and two attack drones considered threats to maritime traffic in the region.

In turn, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it responded by targeting a U.S. air base, though it did not specify the location. Separately, Kuwait reported that its air defenses intercepted Iranian missiles and drones.

Although a ceasefire between the two countries took effect in early April, sporadic attacks have continued. The latest incidents follow a similar exchange of strikes last week.

The conflict, launched by the U.S. and Israel on Feb. 28, has seriously affected global energy markets, as Iran effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, an important waterway for almost 20% of global oil supply.