DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Fighting and maritime tensions escalated in the Gulf on Monday as the U.S. military reported clashes with Iranian forces in the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route.
The U.S. said it fired on Iranian units and destroyed six small boats allegedly targeting civilian ships during an operation aimed at reopening the waterway.
At the same time, the United Arab Emirates said it came under attack from Iran for the first time since a fragile ceasefire took effect earlier in April.
U.S. Central Command stated that American forces successfully escorted two merchant vessels through the strait under a new security effort. It also claimed Iranian forces launched missiles, drones, and small boats at civilian shipping, all of which were intercepted.
U.S. helicopters reportedly sank six of the attacking boats.
The UAE said its air defense systems intercepted multiple threats, including 15 missiles and four drones. A drone strike in Fujairah set off a fire at an oil facility, injuring three foreign workers. British authorities also reported two cargo ships on fire near UAE waters.
Iran did not directly acknowledge the attacks. However, Iranian officials warned that the U.S. and UAE should avoid being pulled deeper into conflict, while state media denied any plan to target UAE infrastructure.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a major flashpoint, with Iran previously signaling restrictions on passage and warning foreign forces against entering the area. The situation has already disrupted shipping routes and pushed global fuel prices higher.
The U.S. says it has cleared a safe passage through the strait and is now escorting commercial vessels as part of what it calls “Project Freedom.” However, shipping companies remain cautious due to ongoing security risks.
The UAE issued missile alerts for the first time since the ceasefire began, forcing flights to divert and residents to take cover.
Tensions remain high as military operations, drone strikes, and diplomatic warnings continue across the region.
Sourced online/ia/xf
