U.S. Conducts Strikes in Southern Iran as Nuclear Sequencing Deadlock Persists in Doha

U.S. Central Command confirmed that American forces carried out fresh "self-defense strikes" in southern Iran over the last 24 hours. The operation targeted missile launch sites and boats allegedly attempting to emplace mines, which U.S. officials described as a preemptive measure to protect American troops and maritime security. Despite the military action, back-channel diplomacy remains active in Doha, where Qatari mediators are hosting officials from both Washington and Tehran. The primary obstacle in negotiations remains the sequencing of a final agreement. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has signaled a willingness to pursue a "pretty solid" proposal that begins with reopening the Strait of Hormuz to international shipping, followed by a strictly time-limited negotiation on Iran’s nuclear program. However, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei stated that nuclear discussions will only occur after a broader regional framework is signed, rejecting the U.S. demand for immediate nuclear concessions. President Trump has maintained a firm public stance via social media, insisting that any "buried" enriched uranium must be surrendered or destroyed. He emphasized that the administration is seeking a "great deal for all or no deal at all," even as Iranian officials attempt to temper expectations by stating a resolution is not imminent. The focus on the Strait of Hormuz highlights the continued prioritization of global energy market stability within the ongoing conflict.