CNN: US-Iran talks continue despite overnight strikes

Talks between the United States and Iran aimed at reaching an agreement are still proceeding as planned even after an overnight exchange of strikes between the two countries, a diplomatic source familiar with the matter told CNN.

The source said a Qatari delegation trying to bridge gaps in negotiations left Tehran on the morning of June 11 following talks with Iranian officials.

The delegation had been present in Tehran while US strikes on Iran were taking place overnight.

Meanwhile, following US strikes, Iran has announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz to all maritime traffic, including oil tankers and commercial vessels, citing insecurity.

Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters said any movement through the waterway would be targeted.

The statement rejected US assertions that shipping traffic was continuing through the strategic passage.

It also warned that Iran’s Armed Forces would deliver “a crushing and decisive response to any aggression and mischief by the invading and terrorist U.S. army in the region.”

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global shipping route for oil and gas exports, and any disruption is likely to have significant implications for international energy markets and regional security.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov