Tehran: Tensions escalated at the Strait of Hormuz as 5 civilians are said to be killed during the attacks initiated by US. According to Iranian state media, the US targeted cargo boats in the strategic waterways claiming the vessels were linked to the IRGC.
The US military however claims its helicopter struck Iranian boats that were threatening commercial shipping operation through the channel.
“We defended both ourselves and, consistent with our commitment, we defended all the commercial ships,” US Central Command (Centcom) commander admiral Brad Cooper told reporters, adding that US forces also “effectively engaged” incoming missiles and drones fired at both naval and civilian vessels.
Iran media dismissed the claims as ‘false’. It claims to have fired “warning shots” using missiles, rockets, and drones near US destroyers after accusing them of a stealth approach through the Sea of Oman. Tehran says repeated warnings were ignored, forcing a show of force.
Meanwhile, US President on Monday refused to answer if the ceasefire was still in place. “Well, I can’t tell you that,” Trump said. “You wouldn’t, if I answered that question, you’d say this man is not smart enough to be president,” he said. However, he warned Iran that they could be “blown off the face of the Earth” if they attacked US vessels.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi cautioned the United States and the UAE against deeper military involvement in the Strait of Hormuz, warning it could turn into a “quagmire.” He stressed that “there’s no military solution to a political crisis” and urged restraint as diplomatic talks progress with Pakistan’s support. Araghchi also criticised Washington’s “Project Freedom” initiative, calling it ineffective.
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