US Says Ceasefire With Iran Still Holds After Naval Clash in Strait of Hormuz

The United States has maintained that its ceasefire arrangement with Iran remains in place despite a fresh exchange of fire involving US naval vessels and Iranian forces in the strategically sensitive Strait of Hormuz.

US President Donald Trump insisted the ceasefire was still active, even after Washington and Tehran accused each other of launching attacks in the latest escalation between both countries.

According to the US military, Iranian forces carried out what it described as an “unprovoked attack” involving missiles, drones and small boats targeting three US Navy guided-missile destroyers transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The US Central Command said its forces intercepted the threats and responded with strikes on Iranian military infrastructure, including missile and drone launch sites as well as command and surveillance facilities.

Iran, however, presented a contrasting account, alleging that US forces struck an Iranian oil tanker and another vessel approaching the Strait, alongside air raids on coastal areas including Bandar Khamir, Sirik and Qeshm Island. Iranian state media reported explosions in multiple locations, including the Strait of Hormuz and Tehran, describing the incident as an “exchange of fire” with hostile forces.

The UAE’s defence ministry further said its air defence systems intercepted missile and drone attacks linked to the rising tensions, underscoring fears that the confrontation could widen beyond the two principal actors.

In a series of social media posts, President Trump said Iranian small boats were destroyed and warned that any future attacks would be met with “greater force,” while also reiterating his claim that the US is still pursuing a broader peace framework with Tehran.

Despite the military escalation, diplomatic signals continue to emerge. Reports indicate ongoing discussions around a possible US-Iran understanding that could form the basis for wider nuclear negotiations, although Iranian officials remain divided, with some describing the proposed framework as unrealistic and others insisting Iran will respond strongly if pressured.

The Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant portion of global oil supplies passes, remains one of the world’s most sensitive maritime corridors, and analysts warn that continued military friction in the area could have wider economic and geopolitical consequences.