WASHINGTON, May 25 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. military struck missile launch sites and mine-laying boats in southern Iran on Monday, according to the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM).

"U.S. forces conducted self-defense strikes in southern Iran today to protect our troops from threats posed by Iranian forces," CENTCOM spokesperson Tim Hawkins said in a statement.

"Targets included missile launch sites and Iranian boats attempting to emplace mines. U.S. Central Command continues to defend our forces while using restraint during the ongoing ceasefire," he said. ■