On Monday, the U.S. military conducted self-defense strikes in southern Iran, specifically targeting missile launch sites and Iranian boats laying mines in the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz. According to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), these actions were taken to protect American forces from threats posed by Iranian military activities. CENTCOM spokesperson Capt. Tim Hawkins emphasized that the strikes were defensive in nature, aimed at neutralizing two Iranian boats and a surface-to-air missile site in Bandar Abbas. The operations were prompted by reports of Iranian vessels attempting to emplace mines and a missile site that had targeted U.S. warplanes. Despite the military actions, U.S. officials reassured that the ceasefire with Iran remains in effect, indicating that the strikes were not a signal of escalating conflict. The situation escalated with explosions reported in various regions around the Strait of Hormuz, including in Iran's Bandar Abbas. As of now, U.S. officials confirmed that the strikes have concluded, but vigilance continues in the region.