US forces have carried out strikes near southern Iran, with US Central Command saying the operation was conducted in self-defence during an ongoing ceasefire framework. Explosions were reported near Bandar Abbas, while Iranian sources claimed IRGC naval units were targeted following alleged maritime incidents in the Gulf. CENTCOM says the strikes focused on rocket platforms and vessels suspected of laying mines, insisting the action was taken to protect US forces and avoid escalation. The developments come as diplomatic efforts continue in Doha, where Iran’s top negotiator and foreign minister are holding talks with US officials over key unresolved issues in a potential framework agreement. President Donald Trump has reiterated that Iran will never obtain a nuclear weapon, while also suggesting several regional states could join an expanded Abraham Accords arrangement as part of a broader settlement. Despite tensions, officials on both sides say negotiations remain active, with no final agreement reached. Al Jazeera reports from Washington, Tehran, and the Gulf region
