US warships repel Iranian assault
The United States launched retaliatory strikes on Iranian military facilities after Iranian forces targeted US Navy destroyers near the Strait of Hormuz, US Central Command confirmed Thursday night. According to CENTCOM, Iranian forces fired missiles, deployed drones, and launched small boats at USS Truxtun, USS Rafael Peralta, and USS Mason while the vessels crossed the strategic waterway toward the Gulf of Oman.
However, US forces intercepted the attacks before they caused damage. CENTCOM stated that American troops destroyed incoming threats and then struck Iranian missile launch sites, drone facilities, command centers, and intelligence positions linked to the assault.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump praised the operation on Truth Social. He claimed US forces destroyed Iranian boats, missiles, and drones during the confrontation. Trump also warned Iran against pursuing nuclear weapons and vowed stronger military action if Tehran refuses to finalize a nuclear agreement quickly.
Later, while speaking at the White House, Trump reiterated that preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons remains Washington’s primary objective.
Iran claims retaliation and regional involvement
At the same time, Iranian state-affiliated media presented a different account of the incident. Tasnim News Agency claimed Iranian naval forces targeted three American destroyers using missiles and suicide drones, forcing them to retreat toward the Gulf of Oman.
Additionally, Iranian outlets alleged the United Arab Emirates may have participated in strikes near Bandar Abbas and Qeshm Island. Tasnim cited unnamed sources who linked explosions in the area to hostile aircraft activity. Iranian authorities warned that the UAE would face consequences if involvement is confirmed.
Furthermore, Iran’s military claimed it damaged US vessels east of the Strait following American attacks conducted alongside regional allies.
