WASHINGTON — U.S. forces carried out strikes against Iranian maritime assets during operations in the Gulf, the latest military action in an escalating confrontation over attacks on commercial shipping and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, U.S. officials said on July 11.
The strikes followed a series of incidents involving merchant vessels in and around the strategic waterway, through which roughly one-fifth of global oil supplies typically transit. U.S. officials said the military action was intended to respond to attacks on commercial shipping and deter further threats to maritime traffic.
U.S. Central Command has previously said it targeted Iranian military infrastructure linked to maritime operations, including surveillance and communications systems, after what it described as continued Iranian aggression against shipping in the region. U.S. officials have maintained that the operations were conducted to protect international navigation and regional security.
Iran has rejected U.S. accusations that it is responsible for attacks on commercial vessels and has disputed Washington's characterization of recent events. Iranian officials have instead accused the United States of violating earlier understandings intended to reduce hostilities, while insisting that any broader agreement must be based on reciprocal commitments.
The military exchanges have unfolded alongside diplomatic efforts led by regional mediators, including Oman, to prevent a broader conflict. U.S. President Donald Trump said talks with Iran would continue despite the collapse of a ceasefire, while U.S. officials have sought a public Iranian commitment to halt attacks on shipping and guarantee safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
The U.S. Maritime Administration has continued to warn that risks to commercial shipping in the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz and Gulf of Oman remain high, citing threats that include missiles, armed drones and unmanned surface vessels. It has advised U.S.-linked commercial vessels operating in the area to maintain close coordination with naval authorities and monitor updated security guidance.
The latest strikes came as negotiations also remain focused on Iran's nuclear program and maritime security, issues U.S. officials have linked in ongoing discussions. No new agreement had been announced as of Saturday, and both diplomatic contacts and military monitoring of the Gulf continued, according to U.S. and regional officials.
