The United States military conducted a fresh defensive operation against Iran on Wednesday, intercepting four Iranian one-way attack drones and targeting a ground control station in Bandar Abbas that was preparing to launch a fifth, according to a U.S. official who spoke to The Hill. Hours later, Iran announced it had struck a U.S. base, escalating the cycle of retaliation.

Negotiations between Washington and Tehran appear to be dragging on, with President Donald Trump offering minimal updates during a Cabinet meeting on Wednesday. He emphasized that political pressure would not force him into an agreement, signaling a tough stance as the Trump's Iran strategy unravels amid nuclear threats and stalled talks.

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The ongoing strikes between the U.S. and Iran underscore the fragile state of diplomacy, with both sides demonstrating military capability even as talks continue. The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected as the day progresses.