US-Iran Dispute Escalates as Tehran Claims Strike on Unmanned US Vessel
The US and Iran are locked in a heated dispute over a claim by Iran that it struck an unmanned US vessel in the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said the remotely-operated vessel was trying to enter a restricted portion of the strait, but the US claims this is a 'total lie'.
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) spokesman Captain Tim Hawkins denied the Iranian claim, saying it's entirely fabricated. In response to Iran's alleged attack, the US military struck three IRGC crude oil carriers near Kharg Island and in the Gulf of Oman on Saturday, permanently disabling them.
Iran has warned that it will impose sanctions on any vessel entering a new restricted zone outside the Strait of Hormuz, which is expected to be announced soon. The US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said that the US sanctions and naval blockade will prevent Tehran from supplying more oil. CENTCOM Commander Adm. Brad Cooper threatened Iran, saying 'If you shoot at two of our ships, we will impose an even higher economic cost, taking out three of yours.'
The standoff between the US and Iran has escalated significantly in recent days, with both sides trading attacks on ships. The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial waterway for global oil supply, and any disruption to shipping could have serious consequences for the global economy.