Iran Attacked U.S. Navy Destroyers in Strait of Hormuz
Two U.S. Navy destroyers, the USS Truxtun and USS Mason, successfully fought their way through the Strait of Hormuz after repelling a massive coordinated barrage of Iranian missiles, drones, and fast-attack boats.
Two U.S. Navy destroyers successfully transited the Strait of Hormuz on Monday despite coming under a heavy, coordinated Iranian assault involving small boats, missiles, and drones, CBS News reported on Tuesday.
The USS Truxtun (DDG-103) and USS Mason (DDG-87) entered the Persian Gulf while facing what defense officials described as a “sustained barrage.” The ships were supported by U.S. fighter aircraft and AH-64 Apache helicopters, which helped neutralize incoming threats. Neither American vessel was hit.
According to Pentagon officials who spoke to CBS on condition of anonymity, Iran deployed fast-attack small boats, cruise missiles, and swarms of drones in a deliberate attempt to challenge the U.S. passage.
Part of “Project Freedom”
The transit marked the first major operational day of Project Freedom, President Donald Trump’s initiative to escort and protect commercial vessels through the strategically vital waterway, which has been partially restricted by Iran since earlier this year. The operation aims to restore freedom of navigation in a chokepoint that carries roughly 20% of global oil trade. maritime-executive.com
U.S. forces also reported sinking six to seven Iranian small boats that were threatening commercial shipping during the same period.
The incident comes amid a fragile ceasefire that has held since early April 2026 but is now under severe strain. Iran has repeatedly warned it would attack any U.S. or foreign military vessels attempting to challenge its control over the strait.
The events triggered an immediate spike in global oil prices, with concerns growing over potential further disruptions to energy markets.
U.S. Central Command has emphasized that American forces will continue supporting safe passage for neutral commercial shipping while maintaining a naval blockade on Iranian ports as part of broader pressure on Tehran.
The situation remains highly fluid, with both sides exchanging strong statements. Iran has denied targeting the destroyers directly in some reports while claiming defensive actions, while U.S. officials say all threats were successfully repelled.