Iran Warns of Retaliation if U.S. Violates Ceasefire Agreement
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has reportedly warned that retaliatory action against the United States would be considered “legitimate and definite” if Washington breaches the current ceasefire arrangement.
The warning comes as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East intensify again, reducing optimism around a possible long-term peace agreement between the two countries.
Reports Claim Iranian Forces Engaged U.S. Military Assets
According to reports citing Tasnim News Agency, which is closely linked to the IRGC, Iranian forces allegedly fired at an American drone and forced a U.S. fighter jet to withdraw.
The reports emerged shortly after renewed military activity involving both sides.
U.S. Says Recent Strikes Were Defensive Operations
Earlier, the U.S. military confirmed conducting new strikes in southern Iran targeting missile launch sites and vessels reportedly attempting to place mines.
Officials quoted U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) described the operations as defensive actions, emphasizing that the strikes did not signal the collapse of the existing ceasefire.
CENTCOM spokesperson Tim Hawkins stated that U.S. forces acted in self-defense and targeted Iranian assets viewed as immediate threats.
He added that military actions should not be interpreted as evidence that diplomatic efforts have ended.
Ceasefire Status Remains Uncertain Despite Ongoing Negotiations
Following the strikes, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said negotiations aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz may require several additional days.
However, Rubio stressed that the strategic shipping route would eventually reopen “one way or another.”
The comments reflect continued efforts to secure a broader agreement while military tensions remain elevated.
Hopes for a U.S.-Iran Deal Face New Challenges
Recent reports had suggested that Washington and Tehran were nearing a framework agreement designed to extend the ceasefire and restore access through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil transportation.
Over the weekend, optimism increased after indications emerged that negotiations were progressing.
President Donald Trump later stated that talks were moving “nicely,” although he also warned that conflict could escalate again if an agreement is not reached.
It remains unclear whether the latest military actions have significantly disrupted those diplomatic efforts.
Nuclear Dispute Continues to Complicate Negotiations
President Trump also reiterated that Iran’s enriched uranium stockpiles must either be surrendered to the United States or destroyed under terms acceptable to both sides.
The administration has repeatedly argued that preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon remains one of the primary objectives behind the joint U.S.-Israeli military campaign launched earlier this year.
However, reports suggest Iranian officials have largely rejected these demands, potentially creating another obstacle to any future peace agreement.
Markets Continue Monitoring Middle East Developments Closely
Ongoing uncertainty surrounding ceasefire negotiations, military actions and nuclear demands is likely to keep investors focused on developments in the Middle East.
Energy prices, safe-haven assets and global markets remain highly sensitive to any signs of escalation or diplomatic progress between the United States and Iran.
