Two conflicting narratives have surfaced regarding an incident in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran asserts that it compelled US warships to withdraw through a direct military warning, while the United States maintains that its two warships completed their task unhindered.
The event, captured in footage broadcast by Iran’s state IRIB, purportedly shows a radio exchange between Iranian naval forces and a US Navy destroyer. The visuals and audio depict a tense interaction at sea, with multiple warnings transmitted over open radio channels.
As per Iranian state media, the IRGC Navy issued a clear warning to a US missile destroyer entering the Strait of Hormuz, instructing it to change course immediately. An IRGC serviceman is heard on the clip stating, “Navy warship 121. This is Sepah (IRGC) Navy station. You must alter course and go back to the Indian Ocean immediately. If you don’t obey my order, you will be targeted.”
In response, the US vessel, as heard in the Iranian-shared audio, maintained a firm yet cautious stance, asserting compliance with international law. Despite the exchange, US officials have not indicated any retreat or deviation from their operational goals.
Additionally, Iranian reports highlighted broader warnings issued to all ships in the Gulf of Oman, advising them to steer clear of US warships to avoid potential engagement without prior notice.
The situation escalated as Iranian forces issued repeated ultimatums, emphasizing the demand for course alteration and threatening targeting. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards warned that any military vessel approaching the strait would be seen as a violation of the ceasefire agreement.
Contrary to Iran’s account, the US Navy, according to US Central Command (CENTCOM), confirmed that two destroyers, USS Frank E. Petersen Jr. (DDG-121) and USS Michael Murphy (DDG-112), safely crossed the Strait of Hormuz into the Arabian Gulf as part of ongoing mine-clearing operations.
CENTCOM stated that the mission aimed to ensure safe passage through the strait, crucial for global oil shipments, with plans to incorporate additional assets like underwater drones in the near future.
This incident unfolded amid heightened tensions following failed US-Iran negotiations, as Donald Trump announced intentions to block ships attempting to traverse the Strait of Hormuz.