Trump announced the destruction of seven Iranian boats in the Strait of Hormuz
Kyiv • UNN
The US shot down seven Iranian boats following the shelling of vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. Only a South Korean cargo ship was damaged as a result of the attacks.
U.S. President Donald Trump said on Monday that the United States shot down "seven small" Iranian boats after Tehran fired on several vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, UNN reports citing CNN.
The American leader added that "no damage" was caused by the Iranian strikes, with the exception of a South Korean vessel.
"Iran launched several strikes against other countries as part of Operation 'Project Freedom,' including a South Korean cargo ship. Maybe it's time for South Korea to join the mission! We shot down seven small boats or, as they call them, fast boats. That's all they have left," Trump said.
"Other than the South Korean vessel, there has been no damage in the Strait at this time," Trump added.
Context
Earlier on Monday, U.S. Central Command Commander Admiral Bradley Cooper told reporters that the U.S. military had "blown up" six small Iranian boats in the Strait of Hormuz.
"Project Freedom" is an initiative to support "merchant vessels seeking free transit" through the Strait of Hormuz, although it does not involve formal military escort. According to a U.S. Central Command statement, the project involves guided-missile destroyers, more than 100 land- and sea-based aircraft, multi-role unmanned platforms, and 15,000 troops.
Trump also announced that Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Cain and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth will hold a press conference tomorrow morning.
Earlier, CNN reported that an explosion and fire occurred on a vessel linked to South Korea in the Strait of Hormuz on Monday, according to a spokesperson for the South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs.