Trump Says Ceasefire Still in Effect after Attacks

U.S. President Donald Trump has claimed that the ceasefire remains in effect following reciprocal attacks between the United States and Iran. Earlier on Thursday night, both countries accused each other of carrying out strikes, the BBC reported.

Iran’s top military command alleged that the United States targeted an Iranian oil tanker and another vessel advancing toward the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran also accused Washington of launching “aerial attacks” on several coastal areas at the same time.

Meanwhile, the United States said Iran attacked U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyers in the Strait of Hormuz. In response, Washington carried out what it described as “defensive strikes.” According to Donald Trump, Iran “played tricks on us today.” A day earlier, Iran’s Foreign Ministry said Tehran was considering a U.S. proposal aimed at ending the war.

Iranian state media first reported “explosions” in the Strait of Hormuz, describing them as “an exchange of fire with the enemy.” Local media also reported hearing explosions in Tehran at the same time. Shortly afterward, Iran’s top military command said in a statement that the United States had launched “aerial attacks” on the coasts of Bandar Khamir, Sirik, and Qeshm Island.

The statement said Iran had attacked U.S. military vessels “in response to these strikes.” It also claimed the attacks caused “significant damage.”