US and Iran pursue a breakthrough diplomatic agreement in Qatar as military strikes target missile sites.
The Trump administration is working to finalize the framework of a potential agreement aimed at ending the conflict with Iran, as diplomatic negotiations continue through channels in Qatar, according to senior U.S. officials. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the administration remains focused on reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy route that has been disrupted during the crisis. Speaking during a visit to India, Rubio declared that the waterway “has to be open” and called the closure “unlawful, illegal, unsustainable for the world, and unacceptable.” Rubio confirmed that U.S. and Iranian representatives were engaged in discussions in Qatar, with negotiators working through the language of a preliminary agreement.
He said President Donald Trump’s position remains unchanged: the United States wants “a good deal or no deal,” while acknowledging that completing the final document could require additional time. While diplomacy moved forward, U.S. Central Command announced that American forces carried out what it described as “self-defense strikes” in southern Iran. Capt. Tim Hawkins said the operation targeted missile facilities and Iranian vessels allegedly involved in efforts to place naval mines near key maritime routes. U.S. military officials said the strikes were designed to protect American personnel and assets while maintaining the broader cease-fire framework.