Captain Tim Hawkins

In a statement, U.S.

Central Command spokesman Captain Tim Hawkins said that U.S.

forces launched the attacks in self-defense to, quote, protect our troops from threats posed by Iranian forces.

Hawkins said the targets in southern Iran included missile launch sites and boats attempting to place mines.

He added that the military continues to defend our forces while using restraint during the ongoing ceasefire.

Despite early indications by President Trump that a deal with Iran to end the war is imminent, Iranian officials have signaled disagreements on key issues.

It's unclear what impact the latest attacks will have on the active peace talk negotiations.

Vanessa Romo, NPR News.