Iran Vows Retaliation as US Strikes Escalate Tensions in the Region

The escalated tensions come hours after the US said it struck Iranian missile sites and boats. The statement issued by US CENTCOM did not give further details. | World News

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Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has warned of retaliation against any ceasefire violations by the United States, following fresh strikes that have escalated tensions in the region.

The IRGC claimed to have shot down a US MQ-9 drone and fired at a fighter jet that entered Iranian airspace, according to reports in Iranian media.

The US had earlier said it conducted self-defence strikes on Iranian missile sites and boats, which it claimed were laying mines.

Iran's Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has released a statement saying that regional countries will no longer serve as shields for US bases.

The escalated tensions come as top Iranian negotiators arrived in Qatar for the latest round of talks to end the months-long conflict.

The US and Iran have been negotiating a deal to extend the ceasefire, with Washington lifting its blockade and Tehran reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

However, sticking points remain, with Tehran insisting it must be able to manage traffic through the chokepoint, while the US, Arab states and Europe maintain this cannot be allowed.