Trump Plays Down US-Iran Clash as Ceasefire Hangs in Balance

A flare-up in fighting between US and Iranian forces has put a month-old ceasefire to the test, threatening diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis.

The incident occurred as Washington awaited Tehran's response to its proposal to end the conflict, which began with joint US-Israeli airstrikes on February 28th. President Donald Trump said three US Navy destroyers were attacked while passing through the Strait of Hormuz, but no damage was done to the vessels.

Iran's top military command accused the US of violating the ceasefire by targeting an Iranian oil tanker and another ship, as well as carrying out air attacks on civilian areas. Tehran responded with strikes against US military assets east of the strait and south of the port of Chabahar.