Iran says it will reassess participation in Middle East peace talks after US strikes

U.S. forces launched air strikes early Wednesday in response to Iran's downing of a U.S. Army helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz, hitting Iranian air-defence sites, ground control stations and radar installations. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said it hit U.S. bases in Kuwait, Bahrain and Jordan and warned of a "crushing and decisive" response if attacks continue.

The exchange marked the most serious escalation since a cease-fire was declared in early April, raising doubts about ongoing talks to turn the truce into a lasting peace. Iran's foreign-ministry spokesperson Esmail Baqaei said the U.S. attacks jeopardised negotiations and that a "minimum stable environment" was required, adding that Israel's actions in Lebanon also undermined the diplomatic process.

President Donald Trump, posting on his social platform, asserted that Iran would "pay the price" and described the Iranian military as defeated. A senior White House official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the overall status of a potential deal had not changed, noting that diplomatic and military actions could proceed concurrently.

Negotiations have stalled amid broader regional tensions, including ongoing strikes between Hezbollah and Israel in Lebanon. Iran has linked any cease-fire to the Lebanese front, while the United States and Israel have sought to separate the two issues. The conflict continues to affect the Strait of Hormuz, a key conduit for global oil shipments, contributing to higher worldwide food and energy prices.