Iranian state-run media reports suggest confrontations involving US destroyers in the Strait of Hormuz, following a US action against an Iranian oil tanker. These reports indicate sounds of explosions on Qeshm Island and in Sirik County. Iran alleges these actions constitute a breach of a ceasefire by the US, with claims of fresh strikes and aerial attacks on civilian areas along the coasts of Bandar Khamir, Sirik, and Qeshm Island.
The central assertion from Iranian media is that the country's forces targeted three US destroyers near the Strait of Hormuz. This follows an incident where a US jet reportedly disabled an Iranian oil tanker attempting to evade a US blockade. Iranian statements characterize these moves as retaliation for what they deem US violations of a ceasefire, including alleged cooperation with unnamed regional countries in carrying out air attacks on coastal civilian areas.
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Exchange of Fire Reported
An Israeli source confirmed an exchange of fire between Iran and the US in the Strait of Hormuz. According to this account, Iranian missiles were fired at a US warship after it obstructed an Iranian tanker's passage. The US reportedly responded in kind. Fars news agency, linked to Iran's Revolutionary Guards, reported overnight that parts of a commercial port on Qeshm Island were hit during an exchange of fire between Iranian forces and "the enemy." A senior US official, speaking to Fox News, described a US military strike on Iran's Qeshm port and Bandar Abbas, but emphasized it did not signify a resumption of full-scale war or an end to the ceasefire. Damage has been reported on the Iranian side.
Broader Regional Context
The events unfold against a backdrop of renewed attacks attributed to Iran. The United Arab Emirates reported receiving over a dozen missiles and several drones, resulting in a fire at an oil facility. This marks the first significant attack on the UAE since a ceasefire took hold last month. In response, the US military stated it sank seven small Iranian boats as they allegedly targeted civilian ships under US protection.
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Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait have reportedly lifted restrictions on US military access to their bases and airspace. These curbs were initially put in place after the US initiated an operation to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. US officials had reportedly downplayed the impact of Iranian attacks in the Persian Gulf following that operation. The US has also announced an initiative, "Project Freedom," aimed at escorting ships through the Strait of Hormuz.
Ceasefire Under Strain
Iran had previously warned that any American interference in the Strait would be viewed as a violation of the ceasefire. The US military confirmed two US-flagged commercial vessels successfully transited the Strait on Monday as part of the new initiative. The US and Gulf Arab nations are reportedly drafting a UN Security Council resolution condemning Iran for blocking the Strait of Hormuz.
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A South Korean cargo ship reportedly experienced an explosion and fire on Monday, an event US President Donald Trump attributed to an Iranian attack. Iran has denied any involvement, with its embassy in Seoul firmly rejecting allegations that its armed forces were behind the blast. Iran claims US forces, in conjunction with regional partners, attacked civilian areas near Bandar Khamir, Sirik, and Qeshm Island.
