New US Strikes on Iran as Trump Cites Progress in Qatar-Mediated Talks

On Friday evening, the US military carried out fresh airstrikes, described as limited, targeting air defense systems in southern Iran, reigniting concerns across Gulf states and the wider region over the potential outbreak of a full-scale war that could threaten regional stability and global energy markets critical to the international community and communities in Europe. Despite the military escalation on the ground, Washington and Doha stressed their commitment to pursuing diplomatic avenues to reach a peaceful resolution.

Swift Strike and Reassuring Messages from Trump

US President Donald Trump told the media that a "small" military operation targeted Iranian air defense equipment on Qeshm Island, stating: "They put up a little anti-aircraft system, and we took it out in about 15 minutes, maybe five minutes."

Trump asserted, "We're not at war," explaining that alongside this limited operation, his country has made "great progress with Iran" through ongoing discussions sponsored by Qatar, adding: "We're in touch with them right now, and they want to make a deal."

Conversely, Iranian state media reported that two missiles struck the Suza area on Qeshm Island without detailing the extent of the damage, while residents took to social media to report hearing loud explosions. Earlier on Friday, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced it had shot down an American military drone over the southern part of the country, a claim Washington has not confirmed.

Qatari Mediation to Salvage the Diplomatic Track

Doha moved swiftly to refute reports of a collapse in negotiations, affirming that close coordination continues among Qatari mediators, the United States, and Iran. Trump held a phone call on Friday evening with the Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, to discuss diplomatic efforts, ease tensions, and pave the way for a comprehensive settlement that safeguards regional security, maritime navigation, and energy supplies.

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth also reviewed the developments with his Qatari counterpart, Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani. Meanwhile, Qatar's Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, emphasized during an event at Oxford University the ongoing collaboration with the US administration to contain the crisis and prevent it from spiraling out of control, stressing that the situation cannot be left without urgent solutions.

Tehran's Conditions and Nuclear File Challenges

The nuclear file remains the primary sticking point in ongoing negotiations aimed at ending a conflict that has spanned more than eight months. While Trump demands a comprehensive settlement regarding the nuclear program, Tehran remains hesitant, setting key preconditions that include lifting the US military blockade on its ports, ending sanctions, releasing frozen assets, providing compensation for war damages, and halting military operations across the region, particularly in Lebanon.

On the regional front, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi intensified communications with his counterparts in 12 nations, calling for regional security arrangements free from outside interference. Meanwhile, Iranian Army spokesman Brigadier General Mohammad Akraminia warned that adversaries would not be allowed to rebuild their bases in the region, cautioning against a wider expansion of the conflict.