Iran escalates Strait of Hormuz tensions after Trump launches ‘project freedom’

DUBAI: Iran launched attacks on commercial vessels and set fire to a UAE oil port on Monday, marking a major escalation in tensions after US President Donald Trump ordered naval forces to reopen the Strait of Hormuz under a new mission called “Project Freedom.”

The US military said Iranian forces targeted ships using drones, missiles and small boats, while also attempting to disrupt shipping through the vital energy route. It added that US forces destroyed six Iranian small boats and intercepted incoming threats, though Iran denied the claims.

South Korea reported that one of its merchant vessels was hit by an explosion inside the strait, while UK maritime officials said two ships were struck near UAE waters. The Emirati company ADNOC also confirmed an empty tanker was hit by drones.

US Central Command said it had reached out to dozens of shipping companies over the past 12 hours, encouraging vessels to continue transit through the strait under American protection. Admiral Brad Cooper said the goal was to ensure “safe passage for commercial shipping” and maintain global energy flows.

Iran rejected US claims that any merchant ships had successfully crossed the strait, insisting no such movement had taken place. Tehran also warned that foreign military forces approaching the waterway would be targeted.

The Strait of Hormuz, which carries around a fifth of global oil and gas shipments, remains heavily disrupted as shipping companies continue to wait for clearer security conditions.