Iran said Saturday its armed forces are “stronger” than at the start of its war with the United States, as Washington offered a $20 million reward for information on Tehran’s nuclear programme, Dawn reported citing AFP.

Army spokesman Mohammad Akraminia said Tehran retained control of the Strait of Hormuz — which normally carries about one-fifth of global oil consumption — and that it would stay closed until the United States met Iran’s demands.

“Today, the Islamic Republic’s armed forces… having gained experience from direct confrontation with the United States and the Israeli regime, are on higher alert and are stronger than they were at the beginning of the war,” he said, according to IRNA. Under the Supreme Leader’s order, he added, any response would be “immediate, effective, and without geographical limitations.”

The conflict began in late February when the United States and Israel attacked Iran. Mediators have been working to prevent fighting from resuming after months of deadlock. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said this week his government was still seeking a resolution through dialogue.

On Friday the U.S. Rewards for Justice programme offered $20 million and possible relocation for information on facilities, equipment and personnel tied to Iran’s nuclear programme, citing the IAEA’s lost “continuity of knowledge.” President Donald Trump again said U.S. forces had “obliterated” the programme and that Iran wants a deal.

Early Saturday, Tasnim reported two missiles had struck Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz, with no official damage details; Iran’s army said air defences destroyed a U.S. drone over the island. Belligerents’ claims are not independently verified in this report.

Image: Strait of Hormuz and Musandam Peninsula (NASA/MODIS, public domain).

Sources consulted: Iran says forces ‘stronger’ than at beginning of war — Dawn.