Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said on Monday it launched a retaliatory strike against a base allegedly used by United States forces following American attacks on Iranian military infrastructure over the weekend, marking the latest escalation despite ongoing negotiations aimed at ending the three-month-long conflict.
The IRGC said its Aerospace Force targeted an airbase from which a strike on a communications tower on Sirik Island in Hormozgan Province had originated. The statement did not specify the location of the base.
Meanwhile, Kuwait reported that its air defences intercepted missiles and drones as warning sirens sounded across the country. Kuwait’s Foreign Ministry condemned the attacks and held Iran responsible, warning that such actions threatened regional security and efforts to reduce tensions.
The latest exchange followed US strikes on Iran’s Gulf coast. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said the attacks were conducted in response to the downing of an American MQ-1 drone operating over international waters. According to CENTCOM, US aircraft destroyed Iranian air defence systems, a ground control station and two attack drones deemed a threat to maritime traffic in the region.
CENTCOM said no American personnel were injured in the Iranian response.
The military exchanges come as indirect negotiations continue over a possible agreement to extend the ceasefire that took effect in April. Reports suggest both sides are reviewing a memorandum of understanding that would prolong the truce by 60 days while establishing a framework for broader peace talks.
US President Donald Trump said Iran “really wants to make a deal” and expressed confidence that an agreement would benefit both Washington and its allies. However, he criticised domestic commentators whom he accused of complicating negotiations through constant political pressure.
Despite diplomatic efforts, significant differences remain over sanctions relief, frozen Iranian assets and Tehran’s nuclear programme, while continued fighting involving Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon threatens to further complicate negotiations.