US Launches Defensive Strikes After Alleged Iranian Attacks on Navy Ships

The United States says it carried out what it described as self-defence strikes against Iranian military facilities after American naval vessels came under attack while transiting the Strait of Hormuz.

In a statement, the United States Central Command said US forces intercepted what it termed “unprovoked Iranian attacks” targeting Navy guided-missile destroyers moving through the strategic waterway into the Gulf of Oman.

According to the command, Iranian forces launched multiple missiles, drones and small boats at three US naval ships passing through the area.

“Centcom does not seek escalation but remains positioned and ready to protect American forces,” the statement added.

Iranian state media reported explosions in the Strait of Hormuz, describing the incident as an “exchange of fire” between Iranian forces and what it called the “enemy”.

The semi-official Fars News Agency also reported explosions near Bandar Abbas, Qeshm Island and the Iranian capital, Tehran.

The development marks a significant escalation in tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil shipping route.

Source: BBC News Live Updates