Iran says it hit US naval vessel and US denies claim

Iran has claimed its navy struck a U.S. military vessel in the Gulf of Oman, a significant allegation that, if verified, would mark a major escalation in regional tensions. The United States has categorically denied the claim, stating its naval forces remain fully operational.

According to Iranian state media, the targeted vessel was hosting a command and control center and was approaching Iranian territorial waters when it was hit. Iranian military officials cited recent U.S. actions against Iranian commercial vessels and alleged violations of regulations governing passage through the Strait of Hormuz as the reason for the operation. The reports did not specify the name of the U.S. ship, the extent of any damage, or whether there were casualties.

U.S. Central Command issued a swift denial. Officials stated no U.S. Navy ships had been struck and that military assets continue to operate safely and unimpeded in the region. A CENTCOM statement described the Iranian claim as false.

The reported incident follows a series of hostile actions across the region. Just hours before the naval claim, Iranian missiles and drones struck targets in Kuwait, including an airport, resulting in one...