Arabic version: الضربات العسكرية الأمريكية تستهدف قوارب إيرانية بعد هجوم على منشأة نفطية في الإمارات

The United States has launched strikes against seven Iranian fast boats in the Strait of Hormuz, as tensions escalate following an Iranian attack on an oil facility in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). President Donald Trump announced the military action, which aims to assist stranded vessels navigating the critical waterway.

According to BBC News, both the UAE and South Korea reported incidents involving ships in the Strait on Monday. The UAE confirmed a fire at the Fujairah oil port, reportedly resulting from the Iranian assault. Shipping company Maersk reported that one of its US-flagged vessels successfully exited the strait under US military protection, part of what Trump has dubbed “Project Freedom.”

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi criticized the situation, stating that the events in the strait demonstrate that a military solution is not viable for resolving political crises. He referred to “Project Freedom” as “Project Deadlock,” suggesting that the situation remains complex and unresolved.

The US military confirmed that helicopters were used in the strikes against the Iranian boats, while Iran denied that such attacks occurred. The US Navy, along with merchant ships, continued operations in the strait, despite Iranian claims of firing warning shots at a US warship.

In response to the attacks, the UAE’s foreign ministry expressed that the situation represents a “dangerous escalation” and reserved the right to retaliate. International leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, condemned the attacks on UAE infrastructure, emphasizing the need for stability in the region. The Brent crude oil price surged above $115 a barrel following the news of the strikes, reflecting market concerns over the ongoing conflict.