Fragile US-Iran ceasefire shaken by exchange of strikes in Gulf
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The United States launched what it described as “self-defense” strikes against Iranian military targets after three US Navy destroyers came under attack in the Strait of Hormuz, sharply escalating tensions in one of the world’s most strategically important waterways.
US Central Command said Iranian forces used missiles, drones and fast attack boats against the USS Truxton, USS Mason and USS Rafael Peralta while the vessels were transiting the strait. American officials said none of the warships were hit and US forces intercepted the incoming threats before retaliating against Iranian missile launch sites, drone infrastructure and command facilities near Bandar Abbas and Qeshm Island.
Iranian state media claimed the confrontation followed an earlier US strike on an Iranian oil tanker and alleged that American naval units suffered damage during the exchange. The Pentagon has not confirmed those claims.
President Donald Trump insisted a fragile ceasefire between Washington and Tehran technically remained in place despite the latest military action. Speaking to reporters, Trump warned Iran against further attacks while describing the US response as limited retaliation.
The confrontation has added further uncertainty to already strained diplomatic efforts aimed at easing the broader Iran crisis, which has disrupted shipping routes and rattled energy markets in recent weeks. Brent crude prices rose following reports of the exchange of fire in the Gulf region.
Regional governments and international mediators have urged both sides to avoid further escalation, warning that prolonged instability in the Strait of Hormuz could have serious consequences for global trade and oil supplies.
