US Says Iran Ceasefire Holding Despite Strait of Hormuz Attacks

The United States Defence Secretary, Pete Hegseth, has said the ceasefire between the US and Iran remains in place despite fresh attacks reported in the Strait of Hormuz.

Speaking on Monday, Hegseth insisted the truce “is not over”, even as tensions escalated following reported missile and drone strikes on military and commercial vessels in the vital shipping route.

He also claimed there is what he described as a “red, white and blue dome” over the strait, suggesting that US military presence has secured the passage. According to him, the safe transit of two American commercial ships through the waterway demonstrates that it remains navigable.

Earlier, Iran’s chief negotiator issued a warning to Washington, saying “we are just getting started”, signalling the possibility of further escalation. Tehran has maintained that it retains control over the strait, a key artery for global oil shipments.

Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump is reported to be backing “Project Freedom”, a plan aimed at deploying US military support to escort stranded cargo vessels through the waterway.

Regional tensions have also spilled over, with the United Arab Emirates reporting additional attacks. Authorities said they intercepted 15 missiles and four drones launched from Iran on Monday.

Analysts warn the situation remains volatile, noting that without concessions from either side, the fragile ceasefire could collapse at any moment, raising fears of a broader conflict in the region.

Source: BBC News