DUBAI, May 4: The United States military has denied Iranian claims that it struck a US Navy vessel near the Strait of Hormuz, as tensions remain high despite a fragile ceasefire.
The denial comes amid a new US initiative to help commercial ships safely navigate the strategically vital waterway, where hundreds of vessels have been stranded since the conflict began.
US Central Command said no American naval ships were hit, contradicting reports from Iranian media outlets that alleged a US vessel had been attacked and forced to retreat.
Meanwhile, the US confirmed that two American-flagged merchant ships have successfully passed through the strait under naval guidance.
Guided-missile destroyers operating in the Persian Gulf are supporting efforts to restore the flow of commercial shipping as part of an operation dubbed “Project Freedom.”
However, officials have not disclosed precise details about the timing or scale of deployments.
The situation remains volatile. Shortly after the US announcement, the United Arab Emirates issued an emergency missile alert—its first since the ceasefire began in early April—though no casualties or damage were reported.
Iran has continued to assert control over the strait, having attacked or blocked vessels that did not comply with its authorization requirements in recent months.
President Donald Trump described the US operation as a humanitarian effort aimed at assisting stranded crews, many of whom are facing shortages of food, water, and essential supplies after weeks at sea.
At the same time, he warned that any Iranian attempt to interfere with shipping would be met with a “forceful” response.
The operation could involve significant military resources, including destroyers, aircraft, and thousands of personnel, though specifics remain unclear.
Iran has condemned the US initiative as a violation of the ceasefire and warned that any foreign military presence in the strait would be targeted.
Iranian officials insist that ships transiting the waterway must coordinate with their forces. Maritime authorities have also warned of serious risks, including naval mines and heavy congestion, urging ships to use designated safer routes near Oman.
Shipping industry representatives remain uncertain about the safety and sustainability of the US plan, noting the risk of renewed hostilities.
The disruption of traffic through the Strait of Hormuz—a critical artery for global oil and gas supplies—has had significant economic consequences, particularly for countries in Europe and Asia.
Oil prices have risen, adding pressure to global markets. The US has also imposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports and warned companies against paying Iran for passage, measures aimed at cutting off Tehran’s oil revenues and pushing it toward negotiations.
Iran has proposed a framework to end the conflict, calling for sanctions relief, an end to the US blockade, and withdrawal of foreign forces.
However, US officials have expressed skepticism about the proposal’s viability.
Diplomatic efforts remain uncertain as both sides continue to exchange warnings.
In a related development, Pakistan facilitated the transfer of 22 crew members from an Iranian vessel previously seized by the US, describing the move as a confidence-building step to revive talks. The ship is expected to undergo repairs before being returned.
Overall, while limited shipping movement has resumed under US protection, the situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains tense, with ongoing risks of escalation and significant implications for global trade and energy markets. (AP)
