Rubio says the US will lift sanctions on Iran only if it gives up enriched uranium, rejecting a Strait of Hormuz-linked deal. Published On 3 Jun 20263 Jun 2026As the US-Israel war on Iran entered its 96th day, the conflict widened across the Gulf region, with both sides reporting new military actions.The United States military said on Wednesday it carried out “self-defence” strikes on Iran’s Qeshm Island, while Iranian media reported explosions in the area.Recommended Stories list of 1 itemend of listThe escalation spilled into neighbouring countries, with Kuwait saying its air defence systems had intercepted incoming drones and missiles, and Bahrain activating warning sirens. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) also said it had intercepted multiple Iranian missiles and drones, while Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed it had targeted US military assets in the region in response to US strikes.The latest developments came amid continued uncertainty over diplomatic efforts to end the war.Here is what we know:In Iran
Citing the IRGC, the semi-official Tasnim news agency reported the latest exchange began when US forces struck an Iranian oil tanker near the Strait of Hormuz, damaging its engine room. The IRGC said it responded by targeting a US-Israeli vessel with naval missiles before US forces struck an IRGC communications tower south of Qeshm Island. It launched missiles and drones at what it described as US military targets, including an airbase, the headquarters of the Fifth Fleet in Bahrain and helicopters stationed in a regional country. The claims could not be independently verified.
Iran’s leadership has not ruled out a deal with the US, but deep mistrust and hardened positions from both sides continue to complicate negotiations. While military, religious and political leaders insist there will be no “surrender” to Washington, subtle differences remain in how key figures view a potential agreement.
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