US Awaits ‘Serious Offer’ From Iran as Fighting Continues

The United States says it is expecting a response from Iran today on a proposal aimed at ending the ongoing conflict, even as both countries continue exchanging fire in and around the Strait of Hormuz, according to CNN.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington hopes Tehran presents what he described as a “serious offer” to help move negotiations forward. The diplomatic efforts come as tensions remain high despite President Donald Trump insisting that a ceasefire is still in effect.

According to CNN, US Central Command confirmed Friday that American forces disabled two Iranian-flagged oil tankers attempting to bypass a US blockade near the Gulf of Oman. The US military said Navy fighter jets used precision strikes to target the vessels’ smokestacks, preventing them from entering Iranian ports.

Iranian media also reported what it called a “limited exchange of fire” between US and Iranian forces around the Strait of Hormuz. Reports from the area described gunfire and explosions continuing for several hours Friday morning.

Iran has condemned the latest US military action, accusing Washington of striking civilian areas and escalating tensions in the region. Iranian officials described the attacks as a “reckless military adventure,” CNN reported.

The conflict is also beginning to impact economies worldwide. Economists told CNN that disruptions linked to the fighting and continued instability in the Strait of Hormuz are pushing up fuel and energy costs, forcing consumers in many countries to spend more on basic necessities.

Meanwhile, regional tensions continue to spread. Authorities in the United Arab Emirates said three people were injured in fresh attacks linked to Iran.

In Lebanon, officials reported that Israeli strikes in the south killed at least 10 people Friday and caused extensive damage to farmland and agricultural communities. The Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah also claimed several attacks on Israeli military positions, raising concerns that the conflict could widen even further.

CNN reports that global attention is now focused on whether Iran’s anticipated response to the US proposal can help ease tensions and prevent a broader regional war.