U.S. forces reportedly clashed with Iranian assets on Monday while working to restore access through the Strait of Hormuz.
According to U.S. Central Command, American forces cleared a secure path through the Strait and escorted two U.S.-flagged commercial ships through the waterway. Officials said the operation is part of a broader push to resume maritime traffic after Iran’s actions disrupted passage and drove up global energy prices.
Adm. Brad Cooper said Iranian forces launched “multiple cruise missiles, drones and small boats” aimed at both commercial vessels and U.S. military ships providing protection, NBC News reported. U.S. helicopters responded by destroying six of the small boats. Cooper said “each and every” threat had been defeated.
“The U.S. commanders who are on the scene have all the authority necessary to defend their unit and to defend commercial shipping — as we saw and demonstrated earlier today,” Cooper added, the Associated Press reported.
Regional fallout from the confrontation was reported in several countries. The United Arab Emirates said it faced missile fire for the first time since the ceasefire began in early April. Officials reported four cruise missiles were launched, three of which were intercepted, while another landed in the sea. In Fujairah, a drone strike sparked a fire at an oil facility and injured three Indian nationals.
“These attacks represent a dangerous escalation and an unacceptable violation,” the UAE’s Foreign Ministry said, per AP.
Elsewhere, Oman reported that a building near the Strait was hit, injuring two foreign workers and damaging vehicles. A South Korean-operated ship experienced an explosion and fire in the area, though no injuries were reported. British military officials also reported two vessels burning off the UAE coast.
Iran has warned it will respond to foreign military activity in the Strait.
“We warn that any foreign military force — especially the aggressive U.S. military — that intends to approach or enter the Strait of Hormuz will be targeted,” said Maj. Gen. Ali Abdollahi, per AP.
The waterway, which lies between Iran and Oman, is a critical route for oil and gas shipments worldwide. Its disruption has rattled markets and increased fuel costs.
President Donald Trump described the U.S. effort, known as “Project Freedom,” as a mission to help stranded vessels and ensure safe transit. He said attempts to block the route “will, unfortunately, have to be dealt with forcefully.”
Iran has criticized the operation, calling it a breach of the ceasefire.
While U.S. officials said no American ships were struck and no injuries were reported among those under military protection, uncertainty remains about whether commercial shipping will return to normal operations given the continued risk.
Diplomatic efforts to resolve the broader conflict have shown little progress. Iranian officials have proposed ending sanctions and military actions as part of a potential agreement, but negotiations remain ongoing.
