U.S. Conducts Strikes Near Iranian Port During Qatar Talks

The U.S. launched strikes against targets near the Iranian port city of Bandar Abbas on Tuesday while diplomats from both countries arrived in Qatar for talks, Reuters reported. Explosions were reported near a logistics hub in the city, according to Iranian state media cited by Reuters.

The strikes occurred as negotiators sought to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and end the ongoing conflict. U.S. officials described the strikes as defensive measures intended to protect troops from threats posed by Iranian forces, Reuters reported, citing a statement from U.S. Central Command.

Rubio said reaching an agreement could take a few days, Reuters reported. Navy Capt. Tim Hawkins stated that U.S. Central Command continues to defend forces while exercising restraint during the ceasefire period. President Donald Trump posted "Peace Through Strength" on Truth Social shortly after the strikes.

Netanyahu announced plans to intensify military operations against Lebanon, Reuters reported. The most recent phase of that conflict began April 8 with bombardment of residential areas in Beirut, and ground operations have moved past a previously designated line.

Crude oil futures remained near $94 per barrel, according to the CNBC WTI Crude tracker, though prices were not trending higher at the time of the strikes.