U.S. and Iran Dispute Ceasefire Status Following Strikes in Southern Iran

Tensions between the United States and Iran intensified over the last 24 hours as both nations traded accusations regarding the stability of a weekslong ceasefire. The U.S. military confirmed it conducted strikes in southern Iran targeting missile launch sites and minelaying boats, characterizing the operation as a defensive measure intended to neutralize immediate threats to maritime security. Despite the military action, U.S. officials emphasized they acted with restraint to preserve the existing pause in hostilities. In response, the Iranian foreign ministry condemned the strikes as a direct violation of the ceasefire agreement, stating that Washington would be held responsible for all subsequent consequences. Tehran further warned that it would not leave acts of aggression unanswered. Meanwhile, Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted that diplomatic discussions regarding a potential extension of the ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz remain active, though he cautioned that a resolution may take several days to finalize. On the humanitarian and economic front, Iranian authorities have begun a partial restoration of internet services, primarily fixed broadband, following a prolonged blackout. The shutdown, which lasted several months, significantly impacted the Iranian economy with losses estimated between $30 million and $40 million per day. While fixed-line access is returning, mobile data remains restricted as the two nations navigate a volatile combination of military posturing and high-stakes diplomacy.