IBNS-CMEDIA: US President Donald Trump on Friday accused Iran of violating the recently brokered ceasefire by launching drone attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, claiming one cargo ship was struck while three other drones were intercepted by American forces.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump alleged that Iran fired at least four one-way attack drones at ships passing through the strategically important waterway.
“The Islamic Republic of Iran shot at least four One Way Attack Drones at Ships transversing the Strait of Hormuz. One of the Drones solidly hit the upper deck of a large and very expensive Cargo Carrying Ship,” Trump wrote.
He said US forces shot down the remaining three drones.
“Damage was done, but the Ship was able to proceed on its way. We knocked down three other Drones. Obviously, this is a foolish violation of our Ceasefire Agreement,” he added.
No details on vessel identified
Trump did not identify the vessel allegedly hit or specify when the attack took place.
However, on Thursday, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), the British military’s maritime security agency, reported that a cargo vessel had been struck by an unidentified projectile off the coast of Oman.
According to the UKMTO, the ship was hit on its starboard side approximately 7.5 nautical miles (14 kilometres) from Oman’s coast, causing damage to the bridge. No casualties were reported, and the vessel was able to continue its voyage.
Fragile ceasefire under strain
Trump’s remarks come as Washington and Tehran continue negotiations aimed at reaching a permanent settlement following a fragile ceasefire agreed to earlier this month.
The two sides are currently discussing key issues, including ensuring safe passage for commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and determining the future of Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium.
Under the interim agreement, the US and Iran have 60 days to negotiate the terms of a broader and more permanent peace arrangement.
