DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Iran’s foreign ministry on Tuesday denounced the latest U.S. military strikes as a ceasefire violation and a sign of “bad faith and unreliability,” even as diplomatic negotiators pressed forward with efforts to end the war. Concurrently, Iranian authorities began restoring nationwide internet access after imposing one of the longest internet shutdowns in the country’s history.
The U.S. military characterized the Monday strikes in southern Iran as defensive operations. A military statement said the targets included missile launch sites and minelaying boats, and noted that the U.S. acted with “restraint” in light of the weekslong ceasefire.
In a statement released Tuesday, Iran’s foreign ministry warned that Washington would bear responsibility for “all consequences” resulting from the new military actions. The ministry did not elaborate on what those consequences might entail but added that “the Islamic Republic of Iran will leave no act of aggression unanswered.”
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps also issued a report claiming it engaged with U.S. aircraft. According to Iran’s official Mizan news agency, the Guard said it shot down at least one drone and deterred another drone and a fighter jet that entered Iranian airspace. The report did not specify when the incidents occurred or whether they were connected to Monday’s strikes.
The exchange of accusations and renewed military activity underscore the fragile nature of the diplomatic track. Despite a weekslong ceasefire and active talks, both sides continue to deploy military force while attempting to forge a resolution to the broader conflict.
The restoration of internet service marks a shift in domestic policy following a period of severe digital isolation. Iranian officials initiated the rollback of the nationwide blackout, which had severed connectivity across the country during the early stages of the conflict and complicated international communication.
Negotiators have been meeting intermittently to discuss the terms of a durable peace, though public posturing from both sides has complicated the timeline. Iranian officials have previously signaled a willingness to engage in talks, but have consistently linked diplomatic progress to an end to aerial bombardments.
U.S. officials have maintained that the strikes are narrowly focused on degrading capabilities that threaten regional security. The military reiterated that it remains open to a negotiated settlement but will respond to what it describes as defensive necessities when threats emerge.
The weekslong internet blackout had previously drawn scrutiny from digital rights groups and international monitors. The gradual restoration of connectivity is expected to allow journalists and families in Iran to resume communication with the outside world, though officials have not confirmed whether full access will be maintained or subject to filtering.
Both Washington and Tehran face domestic pressure as the conflict continues. Iranian state media highlighted the government’s stance on sovereignty and retaliation, while U.S. lawmakers have called for clarity on the administration’s exit strategy and the conditions required for a permanent end to hostilities.