Iranian media reported on Monday that two missiles struck a US Navy vessel near Jask after it allegedly ignored warnings from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to halt.
According to the semi-official Fars news agency, the ship was forced to withdraw following the incident. The report comes amid heightened tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical corridor for global oil shipments.
Conflicting accounts from Tehran and Washington
However, a senior US official, cited by journalist Barak Ravid of Axios, denied that any American warship had been hit by Iranian missiles in the area.
Markets reacted sharply to the initial reports. Brent crude futures surged by more than 5%, reaching $113.8 per barrel, a four-year high.
US launches maritime security operation
The developments follow an announcement by US President Donald Trump launching “Operation Freedom”, aimed at ensuring the safe passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. The initiative has drawn a strong response from Tehran, which warned it would retaliate if US naval forces enter the strait.
US officials told Axios that American naval assets would remain “in the area” and could intervene if Iran attempts to target commercial shipping. The US Navy is also expected to provide guidance to merchant vessels on safe transit routes, particularly avoiding areas that may have been mined.
According to US Central Command (CENTCOM), the operation will involve destroyers, more than 100 aircraft, and approximately 15,000 personnel. Washington has described the mission as humanitarian in nature.
Tehran issues warning over foreign presence
In a statement, Tehran said it would “maintain and manage the security of the Strait of Hormuz with all available means” and called on commercial vessels to avoid transiting without coordination with Iranian forces in the area.
The statement added that any foreign military force, “particularly the aggressive army of the United States”, would be targeted if it attempts to approach or enter the strait.
Source: cnn.gr