U.S. Launches Task Force Targeting Iran Border Routes as Talks Continue

THE BARE STORY

U.S. Central Command announced Task Force Iron Gate, an initiative intended to restrict the movement of advanced weapons systems, dual-use materials, sanctioned goods and illicit revenue through Iran’s land borders and the Caspian Sea. The effort follows months of U.S. naval restrictions on Iranian ports.

President Donald Trump said renewed U.S. strikes on Iran would be highly unlikely if negotiations produce an agreement limiting Iran’s nuclear program and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. He said the United States would remain prepared to strike Iranian infrastructure if necessary and that three U.S. aircraft carriers were in the region.

Trump said any agreement would require Iran to pledge not to develop a nuclear weapon and to reopen the strait. He said fighting between the two countries had continued for more than eight months, with ceasefires and negotiations occurring between periods of conflict.

Iran announced it had ended a self-imposed 2,000-kilometer limit on ballistic missile range, according to Iranian officials. An Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps spokesperson said Iran would respond forcefully to further conflict with the United States or Israel.