Story perspectives

US denies Iran warning shots, destroys drones, intercepts tanker.

6/6/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) called Iran’s claim of warning shots at U.S. warships false.
CENTCOM reported Iran launched missiles, drones and small boats toward U.S.-flagged vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, which Admiral Brad Cooper said U.S. attack helicopters destroyed the boats and intercepted the drones.
U.S. forces intercepted the Botswana-flagged tanker M/T Lexie in international waters after it ignored warnings near Kharg Island.

History

Historical Context

In April 1988, after Iran’s mine strike on the frigate USS Samuel B. Roberts, the U.S. Fifth Fleet under Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Admiral William J. Crowe launched Operation Praying Mantis, destroying three Iranian oil platforms and damaging several warships. The episode created a pattern of naval clashes in the Strait of Hormuz, and today Iran fires missiles, drones and speedboats at U.S.-flagged ships, threat tracked by CENTCOM under Admiral Brad Cooper.

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Story summary

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) called Iran’s claim of warning shots at U.S. warships false.
CENTCOM reported Iran launched missiles, drones and small boats toward U.S.-flagged vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, which Admiral Brad Cooper said U.S. attack helicopters destroyed the boats and intercepted the drones.
U.S. forces intercepted the Botswana-flagged tanker M/T Lexie in international waters after it ignored warnings near Kharg Island.

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