Tensions across the Middle East escalated on Tuesday as Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed it had shot down a US MQ-9 drone and fired at an American fighter jet that allegedly entered Iranian airspace, while US forces carried out fresh strikes in southern Iran and Israel intensified attacks across southern Lebanon.

According to Iranian state media, the IRGC said it reserves the “legitimate and definite” right to respond to any violations of the ongoing ceasefire by the United States. The statement came after US forces conducted strikes targeting boats allegedly attempting to lay naval mines and missile launch sites in southern Iran. Washington described the operations as “defensive actions” aimed at protecting American troops.

US Central Command later confirmed the strikes, saying they were intended “to protect our troops from threats posed by Iranian forces.” Navy Captain Tim Hawkins, a spokesperson for the command, said the US was continuing to defend its forces “while using restraint during the ongoing ceasefire.”

The developments unfolded as Iran’s top negotiator and Foreign Minister were in Doha for talks with Qatar’s Prime Minister regarding a possible agreement with Washington to end the three-month-long conflict. Despite the diplomatic engagement, both Tehran and Washington downplayed expectations of an immediate breakthrough.

US President Donald Trump said in a post on Truth Social that negotiations with Iran were progressing “nicely,” but warned that further attacks could follow if talks collapsed. “It will only be a Great Deal for all, or no Deal at all,” he wrote.

Meanwhile, China called on all sides to uphold the fragile ceasefire. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning urged the parties involved to resolve disputes peacefully and work toward restoring stability in the region.

Separately, Israel intensified military operations in Lebanon, with at least 17 civilians reportedly killed in artillery shelling and airstrikes targeting several areas in southern Lebanon. The escalation came after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the military to step up offensives.

Israeli strikes hit multiple towns and refugee camps, including Rashidieh refugee camp, al-Ma’shouq, Burj al-Shamali, Seddiqin, Housh, and Rishknaniyeh. Additional air raids targeted Mayfadoun, Habboush, Arab Salim, Toul, Harouf, Qaaqaait al-Jisr, and Duweir.

Local reports said two women were killed when an Israeli airstrike hit a residential building. In the Beqaa Valley town of al-Mashghara, at least five people were killed and 11 others, including children, were injured after Israeli warplanes launched multiple strikes on residential neighborhoods.

Israeli attacks also struck the towns of Yater, Zibqin, Ar-Rihan, and Louaizeh, while heavy shelling was reported on the outskirts of Shoukin, Jibchit, and Shehour. Israeli reconnaissance aircraft were also seen flying over Beirut, its southern suburbs, Baalbek, and the Beqaa Valley.