By Paul Joseph
The United States military says it intercepted four Iranian attack drones headed toward the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz before launching strikes on Iranian radar installations, in a move that marks a fresh escalation in tensions between Washington and Tehran.
According to the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) on Saturday Nigerian time, the drones were shot down after they were deemed an immediate threat to maritime traffic in the region, one of the world’s busiest routes for oil and gas shipments.
In a statement released on Friday, CENTCOM said the Iranian one-way attack drones were intercepted before reaching their intended destination.
“Moments ago, CENTCOM forces shot down four Iranian one-way attack drones that were launched toward the Strait of Hormuz,” the command stated.
“The attack drones posed an immediate threat to regional maritime traffic.”
Following the interception, U.S. forces carried out retaliatory strikes on Iranian coastal surveillance radar facilities located in Goruk and on Qeshm Island.
CENTCOM said the operation was designed to prevent further attacks and safeguard freedom of navigation through the critical waterway.
“U.S. forces subsequently struck Iranian coastal surveillance radar sites in Goruk and on Qeshm Island to defend against further attacks,” the statement added.
The military command further noted that American forces stationed in the region remain on heightened alert and are prepared to respond to any perceived threats.
“American forces remain vigilant and postured to respond to unjustified Iranian aggression in self-defense,” CENTCOM said.
The Strait of Hormuz, situated between Iran and Oman, is one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints, handling a significant share of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas exports. Any disruption in the area often sparks concerns across international energy markets and can trigger fluctuations in global oil prices.
The latest military confrontation comes against the backdrop of heightened regional tensions involving the United States, Iran and Israel following months of hostilities, military exchanges and threats of retaliation across the Middle East.
As of the time of reporting, Iranian authorities had not publicly responded to the U.S. claims regarding the downing of the drones or the strikes on the radar facilities.
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