The United States military said it has destroyed 16 Iranian vessels accused of laying naval mines in waters near the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route for global energy supplies as reported by France 24 news
U.S. Central Command said the boats were targeted during operations aimed at preventing attempts to disrupt international shipping through the strategic waterway, where a large share of the world’s oil and liquefied gas shipments normally pass.
American officials said the vessels were believed to be part of efforts by Iran to deploy sea mines that could threaten commercial tankers and military ships operating in the Gulf.
The U.S. said the strikes were carried out to protect freedom of navigation and regional maritime security.
The development comes as the conflict between Iran, Israel and U.S. forces continues to escalate across the Middle East, raising concerns about global energy supplies and the safety of shipping routes in the region.