U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Tuesday that a ceasefire with Iran remains in effect despite recent attacks in and around the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil shipments.

The comments follow two days of military activity that have increased concerns about the durability of the truce. Officials said the ceasefire framework remains intact, even as both sides have carried out limited actions in the region.

Among the incidents, Iran launched strikes targeting sites in the United Arab Emirates, including infrastructure linked to energy operations. Regional authorities reported activating air defenses in response, while condemning the attacks as a threat to stability.

The United States also confirmed taking military action in the waterway. Officials said U.S. forces destroyed several Iranian fast-attack boats after they approached vessels transiting the strait, describing the move as a defensive measure to protect maritime traffic.

U.S. forces patrol the Strait of Hormuz after recent incidents.

The Strait of Hormuz handles a significant share of the world’s oil supply, making any disruption a concern for global markets. Recent incidents have heightened security alerts and prompted closer monitoring of commercial shipping in the area.

Despite the exchanges, U.S. officials said the ceasefire has not collapsed. However, they acknowledged that the situation remains volatile, with the risk of further escalation if additional incidents occur.

Diplomatic efforts to maintain the truce are ongoing, though prospects for a longer-term resolution remain uncertain. International observers say the coming days will be critical in determining whether tensions ease or intensify.

Sources: The Associated Press, Reuters, BBC News and CNN.