WASHINGTON — U.S. and Iranian forces exchanged strikes near the Strait of Hormuz this week after American naval units disabled an Iranian‑flagged tanker that officials said attempted to breach a U.S. blockade, according to multiple news reports.
U.S. forces fired on the vessel as it approached restricted waters, and Iran responded by launching attacks toward U.S. naval assets in the region. The exchange marks one of the most direct confrontations between the two countries since hostilities escalated earlier this year.
France has deployed the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier toward the region as European governments monitor the situation and call for de‑escalation.
President Trump first warned of “much heavier bombing” on Thursday and later said the conflict could be resolved quickly.
The Strait of Hormuz — a narrow passage through which a significant share of the world’s oil supply travels — has been the site of repeated clashes since the United States imposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports earlier this year.
No U.S. casualties were reported. Officials have not disclosed the extent of damage to Iranian vessels or infrastructure.
Diplomatic efforts are ongoing as regional governments push for a reduction in hostilities.