Iran Accuses U.S. of Violating Ceasefire

By Tahani Elghazaly
Published May 26, 2026

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Iran accused the United States of violating a fragile ceasefire after new U.S. strikes hit targets in southern Iran, raising fresh doubts over the diplomatic track between Washington and Tehran and renewing tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy routes.

Tehran said the strikes in Iran’s southern Hormozgan province undermined trust and showed what it described as Washington’s bad faith while talks continue over a possible agreement to end the escalation. Iran’s Foreign Ministry called the operation a violation of the ceasefire and warned that continued attacks could push the region toward a new round of confrontation.

The United States said the strikes were carried out in self-defense. U.S. officials said the targets included missile launch sites and Iranian boats allegedly attempting to lay mines near the Strait of Hormuz. The U.S. Central Command said the operation was intended to protect American forces from direct threats while Washington continues to show restraint during the ceasefire period.

The escalation comes as Washington continues to signal possible progress in talks with Iran. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said a deal could take several more days, while unresolved issues include reopening shipping routes through Hormuz, Iran’s nuclear program, and the release of frozen Iranian funds.

The Strait of Hormuz remains central to the crisis because of its importance to global oil and gas shipments. Any military action near the waterway is not only a security development; it can quickly affect energy prices, supply chains, and international trade.

The latest developments show how fragile the ceasefire remains. Washington says its strikes were defensive, while Tehran says they prove the United States is negotiating while still using force. That gap could make the next stage of diplomacy more difficult for regional mediators.