Iran has launched “multiple” ballistic missiles in an “attempted surprise attack” against US forces in the Middle East, the US military says.

The attack occurred at 17:45 EDT (2145 GMT) on Tuesday, and all missiles were “successfully intercepted,” according to US Central Command, without specifying the location of the apparent targets.

Tehran has not yet commented. The alleged attack occurred during a lull in fighting between the two countries, which was intended to bring negotiators back to the table.

US President Donald Trump said on Monday that “very friendly negotiations” were underway with Iran, after the two sides did not exchange attacks for the third day in a row.