CENTCOM: Iran's attacks thwarted, responded in self-defense

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) released a statement detailing the conflict in the Strait of Hormuz. It was noted that the incident occurred during the passage of U.S. warships in international waters, stating, “U.S. forces thwarted Iran's unprovoked attacks and responded with self-defense measures during the passage of U.S. Navy guided-missile destroyers from the Strait of Hormuz to the Gulf of Oman on May 7.”

'NO U.S. ELEMENT WAS HIT'

The statement provided details of the Iranian attack on the passing naval elements, stating, “While the USS Truxtun (DDG 103), USS Rafael Peralta (DDG 115), and USS Mason (DDG 87) were passing through international waters, Iranian forces launched numerous missile, drone, and small boat attacks. No U.S. element was hit.”

'WE ARE NOT SEEKING TO ESCALATE TENSIONS'

The statement emphasized that U.S. forces responded to the attacks by striking Iranian facilities within the scope of self-defense, stating, “CENTCOM eliminated incoming threats and targeted Iranian military facilities responsible for attacking U.S. forces, including missile and drone launch sites, command and control centers, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance points. CENTCOM is not seeking to escalate tensions but is positioned and ready to protect American forces.”