The United States has launched “self-defense strikes” in southern Iran, U.S. Central Command said Monday, as peace talks continue.

The action was taken to “protect our troops from threats posed by Iranian forces,” Capt. Tim Hawkins said in a statement.

“Targets included missile launch sites and Iranian boats attempting to emplace mines,” he added. “U.S. Central Command continues to defend our forces while using restraint during the ongoing ceasefire.”This is a breaking news story and will be updated.