The United States military said it destroyed six Iranian small boats and intercepted cruise missiles and drones launched by Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as it moved to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil shipping route.
The action is part of a new U.S. operation aimed at restoring safe passage for commercial vessels after Iran effectively disrupted traffic in the strait.
According to U.S. Central Command chief Admiral Brad Cooper, Iranian forces attempted to interfere with the mission using missiles, drones, and fast-attack boats, but all threats were successfully neutralised.
The U.S. also cleared mines and began escorting ships through the waterway, demonstrating that transit could resume despite ongoing risks.
The developments come amid escalating tensions despite a fragile ceasefire agreed earlier in April. Iran has continued attacks in the region and denied U.S. claims about destroyed boats and safe passage.
Meanwhile, the standoff has left many commercial vessels stranded and raised concerns about global energy supplies, as the strait handles a significant share of the world’s oil shipments
