Claims by Iranian state-affiliated media that a US warship was struck by missiles near the Strait of Hormuz are false, the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) stated.
Iran’s navy stated it had issued warnings to foreign warships attempting to enter the Strait of Hormuz, describing its actions as a “swift and decisive warning.” Iranian military officials also cautioned that any unauthorized naval presence in the strategic waterway would face a strong response, according to the state media.
Meanwhile, the semi-official state agency Fars News reported that a US warship was reportedly struck by two missiles while operating near the port of Jask at the southern approach to the Strait, prompting it to withdraw from its transit attempt.
These claims were rejected by CENTCOM in an official statement posted on Twitter.
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🚫 CLAIM: Iranian state media claims that Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps hit a U.S. warship with two missiles. ✅ TRUTH: No U.S. Navy ships have been struck. U.S. forces are supporting Project Freedom and enforcing the naval blockade on Iranian ports. pic.twitter.com/VFxovxLU6G
Earlier, CENTCOM revealed that its forces will begin supporting Project Freedom on May 4 to restore freedom of navigation for commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
The mission, directed by the President, will support merchant vessels seeking to freely transit through the essential international trade corridor.
“Our support for this defensive mission is essential to regional security and the global economy as we also maintain the naval blockade,” said Adm. Brad Cooper , CENTCOM commander.
Last week, the US Department of State announced a new initiative, in partnership with the Department of War, to enhance coordination and information sharing among international partners in support of maritime security in the strait.
The Maritime Freedom Construct aims to combine diplomatic action with military coordination, which will be critical during Project Freedom.
US military support to Project Freedom will include guided-missile destroyers, over 100 land and sea-based aircraft, multi-domain unmanned platforms, and 15,000 service members.