Strait of Hormuz tensions rise as Washington and Tehran trade conflicting claims

Conflicting accounts continue to surround military activity near the Strait of Hormuz following escalating confrontations between the United States and Iran. Iranian state media claimed local forces hit six vessels—three commercial tankers and three US naval ships—and launched missiles toward an American aircraft carrier. Firefighters reportedly managed to put out a blaze on one affected merchant vessel.

US President Donald Trump dismissed Tehran's claims, stating the strategic waterway remains operational and asserting that Iran faces severe challenges. However, American intelligence reports indicate that Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps believes its strategic posture has improved, heightening concerns over further conflict. The escalation follows the breakdown of a 14-point truce negotiated in June.

Sources: Corriere della Sera, La Repubblica