US Military Helicopters Destroy Iranian Speedboats
The US military confirmed that AH-64 Apache attack helicopters and MH-60 Seahawk helicopters sank six Iranian small boats in the Strait of Hormuz. According to military statements, the boats were engaged in hostile actions against civilian vessels in the waterway, prompting US forces to intervene to protect merchant shipping.
The strike marks the latest escalation in President Trump’s “Project Freedom” initiative, launched to provide military escorts for hundreds of foreign merchant vessels stranded in the Strait of Hormuz since the conflict began.
Trump Issues Stark Warning
Following news of the boat sinkings, Trump issued a harsh warning on social media, stating that if Iran continues attacking US vessels, its regime could be “blown off the face of the Earth.” The rhetoric further intensified international concerns about a widening conflict.
Iran Denies US Claims
Iran disputed the American account of the incident. Anadolu Agency reported that Iran’s military denied US claims of sinking Iranian military boats, suggesting the American narrative was inaccurate. Iran’s military command had previously warned that any foreign military force attempting to transit the Strait of Hormuz would be targeted.
Operation Details
According to The War Zone, US Army and Navy jointly deployed AH-64 Apache and MH-60 Seahawk helicopters to carry out the strikes. The Iranian boats were reportedly threatening civilian vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, and the US action was characterized as part of the broader “Project Freedom” escort operation.
Stars and Stripes reported that US forces intercepted Iranian attacks on commercial vessels as part of efforts to protect navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
Global Implications
The Strait of Hormuz handles approximately one-fifth of global oil transportation, making it the most critical strategic waterway in the region. Since Iran effectively took control of the strait following US-Israeli military operations in late February, countries in Europe and Asia that depend on Persian Gulf oil and gas have faced severe supply constraints, driving prices well beyond regional levels.
The US decision to directly sink Iranian boats marks a shift from mutual warnings and sporadic exchanges to more overt military confrontation. The international community has called on all parties to exercise restraint to prevent further deterioration of the situation.
Sources: CBS News, The War Zone, Task & Purpose, Stars and Stripes, New York Post, Anadolu Agency