TEHRAN / WASHINGTON: At least five people were reported killed following a suspected U.S. military strike on two cargo vessels in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, according to Iran’s Tasnim News Agency, which cited a military source.
The source claimed the vessels—described as carrying civilian cargo—were en route from the Omani port of Khasab to Iran’s coastline when they were targeted. The reported attack surfaced amid earlier allegations that U.S. forces had engaged Iranian vessels in the same.
US Military Account Points to Separate Engagement
In contrast, the Associated Press reported that United States Central Command confirmed a maritime confrontation in which American military helicopters destroyed six small Iranian boats in the Strait of Hormuz.
According to Brad Cooper, commander of U.S. Central Command’s naval forces, the action was taken in response to what was described as a potential threat in the busy shipping corridor.
Iran Rejects US Claims
Iranian authorities swiftly denied the U.S. account, asserting that no vessels belonging to the Iranian Navy were sunk during the reported timeframe. Officials dismissed the reports as inaccurate and reiterated that all Iranian naval assets remained intact.
Rising Tensions in Critical Energy Corridor
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most sensitive maritime chokepoints, handling a significant share of global oil shipments. The emergence of conflicting narratives from both sides underscores the heightened tensions in the region and raises concerns over maritime security and the safety of civilian shipping.
Independent verification of the incident remains limited, and further details are expected as the situation develops.
BY: The Times Union
