US Military Destroys Two Iranian Boats Near Strait of Hormuz Drone Ship

The US military confirmed it fired on and destroyed two small Iranian boats this week after they attempted to seize a US unmanned surface vessel in waters off Iran. Captain Tim Hawkins, a US Central Command spokesman, said the Iranian boats "recently attempted to take possession of a US unmanned surface vessel" but failed after the military "forcefully responded." The engagement occurred off the Iranian coast, according to Central Command. Iranian state media reported Monday that two fishing boats were attacked in Hormozgan province on Iran's southern coast, with several fishermen reported missing, according to a provincial official. Tehran claims the vessels were local fishing craft. The incident marks the latest exchange of fire in a war now more than six months old, as both sides contest control of the Strait of Hormuz. In recent weeks, the US has succeeded in loosening Iran's grip over the critical energy shipping corridor. The confrontation underscores escalating tensions over the strategic waterway through which a significant share of global oil shipments passes.