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Iran live updates: IRGC ready for 'counteroffensive' if US attacks, spokesperson says

The Strait of Hormuz remains a flashpoint with peace talks stalled.

ByDavid Brennan
Last Updated: September 21, 2026, 5:41 AM EDT

President Donald Trump announced "major combat operations" against Iran on Feb. 28, with massive joint U.S.-Israeli strikes targeting military, government and infrastructure sites.

Delegations from the U.S. and Iran entered negotiations in June aimed at a war-ending deal based on a memorandum of understanding signed by both countries.

Those talks broke down as the U.S. and Iran continued to exchange strikes, with the strategic Strait of Hormuz as the primary flashpoint. Trump then said in August that the U.S. would launch a "crushing economic operation" to force Tehran into submission.

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Sep 19, 2026, 8:29 PM EDT

State Department advises Americans to 'seriously reconsider' travel in Middle East, citing Houthi hostilities in Saudi Arabia

The State Department posted a security alert on Saturday evening advising Americans currently in the Middle East to "exercise heightened vigilance" and "be aware of potential flight cancellations, airspace closures, and travel disruptions."

"Iranian-supported Houthis have engaged in hostilities against Saudi Arabia, including civilian airports. This military conflict has the potential to escalate rapidly," the post said.

The alert also advised Americans outside the Middle East to "seriously reconsider travel to and through the region."

-ABC News' Lauren Minore

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