Daijiworld Media Network - Washington

Washington, May 28: Tensions between the United States and Iran intensified further after US forces carried out fresh defensive strikes on an Iranian military installation following the interception of multiple Iranian attack drones near the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

According to US officials, American Central Command forces successfully shot down four Iranian one-way attack drones that were perceived as a potential threat in the sensitive maritime region.

Officials stated that US forces also targeted a ground control station in Iran’s Bandar Abbas area, which was allegedly preparing to launch another drone. The officials shared details of the operation anonymously as they were not authorised to speak publicly on the matter.

The latest military action marks the second US defensive strike against Iran this week, even as diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran continue.

US President Donald Trump, while addressing a Cabinet meeting, claimed that Iran was “negotiating on fumes” and asserted that Tehran’s economy was in deep crisis.

Trump said Iran’s economic system had “completely broken down,” alleging soaring inflation and a collapse in the value of the Iranian currency.

Expressing confidence over ongoing negotiations, Trump remarked that a possible agreement with Iran could be nearing completion, although officials indicated that discussions remain unresolved.

Reaffirming his opposition to Iran’s nuclear ambitions, Trump said the country would not be allowed to possess nuclear weapons.

“They cannot have a nuclear weapon. I’m doing this for the world,” Trump stated.

Speaking on the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most crucial oil shipping routes, Trump said the United States would ensure that the passage remains open and unrestricted.

He also ruled out any sanctions relief for Iran under a future nuclear agreement, insisting Tehran must surrender its highly enriched uranium without expecting economic concessions in return.

Trump further expressed opposition to any proposal involving Iran transferring enriched uranium to Russia or China.

The developments come amid growing concerns over regional stability and global economic uncertainty linked to the ongoing US-Iran standoff.