US Pursues 'Dual Track' — Strikes Iranian Positions While Insisting Deal Negotiations Are Moving Forward

On May 25, 2026, the United States conducted strikes on Iranian missile launch sites and boat formations in the Strait of Hormuz region while simultaneously insisting through diplomatic channels that peace negotiations were progressing. The dual-track approach — simultaneous military pressure and diplomatic engagement — drew sharp condemnation from Tehran, which accused the US of a 'flagrant violation of the ceasefire in the Hormozgan region.' US Central Command described the actions as 'defensive strikes' in response to perceived maritime threats. Trump told reporters that negotiations were 'moving forward for a deal to end the war,' even as US and Iranian forces exchanged fire. The disconnect highlighted the fundamental instability of the ceasefire architecture: neither side had agreed to a formal cessation of all military activity, leaving a grey zone in which both could claim the other had violated the truce. Iran's foreign ministry summoned diplomatic channels to protest the strikes. The episode underscored why Iran's demand for a Lebanon ceasefire as a package condition — and US insistence on Iran's immediate commitment to open Hormuz without any preconditions — remained the core structural obstacle to a comprehensive settlement. Iranian negotiators in Doha, Qatar, continued indirect talks with US intermediaries even as the armed incidents unfolded.