US-Iran military clashes escalate

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed to have shot down two US drones, an MQ-1 and an MQ-9, and fired at a fighter jet that allegedly entered Iranian airspace. These actions were described as responses to perceived hostile operations and ceasefire violations by the United States. In retaliation, the United States military, through the United States — United States Central Command (CENTCOM), conducted 'self-defence strikes' on missile launch sites and mine-laying boats in southern Iran, and later carried out overnight strikes on a military site. Despite these military engagements, both sides maintain that a ceasefire is still in effect. The tensions are further exacerbated by concerns over Iran's nuclear program, which Washington cites as a reason for conflict with Israel. Additionally, three explosions were reported near Bandar Abbas on the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime chokepoint.