The fragile peace in the Middle East appeared to be disintegrating on Friday after Iran launched attacks on three US Navy warships and fired missiles toward the United Arab Emirates. Iranian naval vessels targeted the USS Truxtun, USS Rafael Peralta, and USS Mason with multiple missiles, drones, and small boats.
US Intercepts Attack
The US Navy confirmed it intercepted the assault before striking Iranian missile and drone launch sites, command and control centers, and reconnaissance positions. Despite initiating the hostilities, Iran accused the US Navy of 'provocative actions' and characterized its own attacks as part of a 'precise combined operation.'
Iranian Foreign Minister's Statement
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi wrote on X: 'Every time a diplomatic solution is on the table, the US opts for a reckless military adventure.' However, even after US ships were targeted, President Trump maintained that the ceasefire remained intact while threatening devastating retaliation if Iranian attacks continued.
Trump's Warning
Trump stated: 'They trifled with us and we blew them away. I'll let you know when there's no ceasefire. You won't have to know there's no ceasefire, you'll just have to look at the one big glow coming out of Iran. And they had better sign their deal fast.' The USS Rafael Peralta had been enforcing a maritime blockade against the Iran-flagged crude oil tanker Stream. Although attacked on Thursday, the US vessel was not struck.
Broader Conflict
Tehran has faced heavy US and Israeli airstrikes since Saturday, following the killing of Ayatollah Khamenei. Iranian media reported attacks on Qeshm Island and the coastal city of Bandar Abbas, with air defense units activated in Tehran and other cities. In a separate operation, US forces disabled unladen Iranian oil tankers—the Sea Star III and Sevda—before they could reach the Gulf of Oman, citing blockade violations.
The skirmishes unfolded as efforts to negotiate a lasting ceasefire continued. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the US expected to receive Iranian peace proposals imminently.
