Bitcoin, XRP slide amid mixed Iran attack reports

Related: Iran sets strict terms for ships crossing Hormuz after ceasefire

The operation mobilized a formidable force of 15,000 service members, guided-missile destroyers, more than 100 land and sea-based aircraft, and multi-domain unmanned platforms.

Central Command confirmed that two U.S.-flagged merchant vessels completed the transit as a first step in the mission, with Navy guided-missile destroyers operating in the Arabian Gulf in support.

However, the announcement was met with an aggressive Iranian response.

Tehran issued a new map and a series of statements reasserting its control over the strait.

Iranian army public relations claimed its naval forces had prevented American destroyers from entering the strait's vicinity, with state media further alleging that two missiles struck a U.S. ship near the entrance.

The U.S. military flatly denied both claims.

"No U.S. Navy ships have been struck," Central Command said. "U.S. forces are supporting Project Freedom and enforcing the naval blockade on Iranian ports."

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UAE condemns drone attack on ADNOC tanker

The confrontation escalated further with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) accusing Iran of launching a drone attack on an empty crude oil tanker belonging to Abu Dhabi state oil firm ADNOC as it attempted to pass through the strait.

ADNOC's maritime logistics unit confirmed its vessel, the Barakah, was struck by two drones, though no injuries were reported, given the ship was uncrewed at the time.