Iran on Wednesday accused the United States of jeopardizing ongoing diplomatic efforts to end the conflict after American forces carried out a new round of strikes on military targets in southern Iran.

The criticism came as Washington announced the completion of what it described as retaliatory military operations in response to the downing of a US attack helicopter.

Tehran Says Military Action Harms Peace Efforts

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said US actions were undermining international efforts aimed at achieving a diplomatic resolution.

In a video statement carried by Iranian media, Baqaei accused Washington of sending conflicting messages while continuing military operations on the ground.

"Unfortunately, the United States is damaging this diplomatic process through the contradictory messages it sends, its repeated shifts in positions and demands, and, worst of all, through repeated violations of the ceasefire," he said.

Baghaei argued that diplomacy cannot succeed alongside military escalation.

"Any diplomatic process is damaged by the use of force and by resorting to unlawful actions on the ground," he added.

CENTCOM Announces Completion of Retaliatory Operation

Earlier on Wednesday, US Central Command (CENTCOM), which oversees American military operations in the Middle East, announced that it had concluded a series of strikes against Iranian targets.

In a statement posted on X, CENTCOM said it had "completed self-defense strikes against Iran" following recent hostilities.

The military command said the operation targeted air defense systems and surveillance infrastructure near the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically important waterway through which a significant share of global energy supplies passes.

Targets Hit Near Strait of Hormuz

According to CENTCOM, US Air Force and Navy fighter aircraft used precision-guided munitions to strike Iranian military sites.

"CENTCOM forces struck Iranian air defense, ground control stations, and surveillance radar sites near the Strait of Hormuz with precision munitions from US Air Force and Navy fighter jets," the statement said.

US officials characterized the operation as a defensive response to Iranian actions and emphasized that American forces remain prepared to respond to further threats.

"US forces remain vigilant and postured to defend against unjustified Iranian aggression," CENTCOM added.

Diplomatic Efforts Face Renewed Challenges

The latest exchange underscores the growing tensions between Washington and Tehran despite ongoing international attempts to de-escalate the conflict through diplomatic channels.

While Iran maintains that continued military operations are undermining negotiations, the United States has defended its actions as necessary measures to protect its personnel and interests in the region.

The developments raise fresh questions about the prospects for a negotiated settlement as both sides continue to exchange accusations amid an already fragile diplomatic environment.