US intercepts Iranian missile launches near Israeli border with Lebanon

US Forces Intercept Multiple Iranian Ballistic Missiles and Drones in Region

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that seven ballistic missiles were fired towards Kuwait and Bahrain on Friday night, hours after intercepting four Iranian attack drones launched towards the Strait of Hormuz. According to CENTCOM, six of the missiles were successfully intercepted, while one did not reach its target.

US forces also targeted Iranian coastal surveillance radar sites in Goruk and Qeshm Island. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) stated that its attacks had targeted US bases in the region in retaliation for US strikes. Additionally, the IRGC fired at four tankers attempting to cross the all-but-closed waterway.

The US and Iran have been engaging in indirect talks aimed at reaching an interim deal to end the conflict. As part of the agreement, Iran seeks sanctions waivers, access to frozen assets, and the lifting of a US blockade on its ports. The US has called for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and concessions on Tehran’s nuclear program.

Iranian officials have warned that further aggression from the US in the region will not be tolerated. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi rejected comments made by Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, stating that Lebanon was not a bargaining chip for Iran during its negotiations with the US.

Meanwhile, Israel has continued to launch strikes in southern Lebanon, resulting in the deaths of several Lebanese soldiers, including an officer. The conflict between Hezbollah and Israel began at the start of March after Hezbollah stated it was acting in support of Tehran.

Source: Al Jazeera