US and Iran Explore Diplomatic Path Amid Tensions Over Nuclear Deal

US and Iran Continue to Exchange Proposals Amid Escalating Tensions

The United States and Iran have continued to exchange proposals for peace since a temporary ceasefire was announced in April, but both sides have repeatedly signaled their willingness to use force against each other if necessary. Despite the Pakistan-mediated ceasefire on April 8, recent attacks on both countries’ assets and infrastructure in Gulf countries have raised concerns about renewed war.

On Friday, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that US bases in the region are considered legitimate targets. This warning came after a series of incidents, including attacks on Iranian and US assets in Gulf countries over the past few weeks. Iran’s navy also reported firing warning missiles and drones at US warships in the Gulf of Oman.

The situation has escalated further with recent strikes by Iranian missiles and drones against Kuwait’s international airport, resulting in injuries, damage to facilities, and flight suspensions. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that two Iranian missiles aimed at Kuwait fell short or broke apart, but insisted that several ballistic missiles did not reach their targets.

The US has also launched strikes on Iranian radar and drone sites, as well as a telecommunications tower on Qeshm Island. Tehran responded by saying US forces damaged an Iranian oil tanker near the Strait of Hormuz. The incidents mark an escalation following a brief lull after tit-for-tat strikes spreading across the Gulf last month.

US leaders have previously stated that Washington and Tehran are close to a peace deal or that the war will end soon, but recent developments suggest that tensions remain high. Iranian state media reported that Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) targeted US helicopters in a “regional country”, apparently referring to Kuwait. The situation remains uncertain, with both sides signaling their willingness to use force if necessary.

Source: Al Jazeera