Iran's armed forces launched a counterattack against U.S. military targets after what Tehran described as American aggression in and around the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.

The confrontation began after U.S. forces violated a ceasefire by targeting an Iranian oil tanker traveling from the Jask region toward the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran also claimed another Iranian vessel came under attack near the UAE port of Fujairah, The Caspian Post reports via Press TV.

Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters spokesperson Ebrahim Zolfaghari accused the United States and its regional allies of carrying out coordinated airstrikes on civilian areas along Iran’s southern coastline, including Bandar Khamir, Sirik and Qeshm Island.

Iranian authorities said the military responded immediately by launching attacks on U.S. naval assets east of the Strait of Hormuz and south of Bandar Chabahar. Tehran claimed the strikes caused significant damage to American vessels and forced some ships to retreat, though the U.S. has not confirmed those claims.

Iran warned that any future attacks or ceasefire violations would be met with a “decisive” response, signaling growing risks of further escalation in one of the world’s most sensitive maritime corridors.

The latest exchange comes amid mounting tensions over maritime security and energy transit routes in the Gulf region. Iranian media also linked the escalation to the reported suspension of “Project Freedom,” a U.S.-led effort aimed at reopening secure shipping through the Strait of Hormuz after recent military clashes.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most important oil transit chokepoints, handling a significant share of global crude and gas exports. Renewed fighting in the area has raised fears of disruption to international energy markets and shipping operations.