US-Iran talks still on track despite overnight escalations, CNN claims

Talks to reach a deal between the US and Iran are on track despite a recent exchange of strikes, CNN reported on Thursday, citing a diplomatic source.

Exchange of attacks between the US and Iran continued for a second consecutive day, with US President Donald Trump warning that Washington would launch additional strikes unless Tehran immediately accepts the peace deal.

In a statement, the US Central Command said American forces struck multiple military targets in Iran from late Wednesday into early Thursday, describing the attacks as an act of "self-defense" following the downing of a US helicopter in the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump earlier said Iran had taken too long to negotiate a deal, and would have to pay a price.

The ⁠talks since the April ceasefire, which was mediated by Pakistan, have focused on permanently ending the war that began on Feb. 28, unblocking the Strait of Hormuz, and reaching a consensus on Iran’s nuclear program.