Iran confronts US destroyer for alleged territorial violation in Gulf of Oman

The Iranian Navy issued a stern warning to the US Navy destroyer USS Fitzgerald (DDG-62) this morning after the vessel reportedly approached Iranian territorial waters in the Gulf of Oman.

In response to the incursion, Iranian naval aviation deployed a military helicopter to the vicinity, which communicated a clear demand for the American warship to immediately withdraw from the area, Caliber.Az reports per Iranian media.

Tensions escalated when the US destroyer threatened to shoot down the Iranian helicopter. Undeterred, the Iranian pilot persisted in delivering the warning.

Following repeated threats from the USS Fitzgerald, Iranian defence systems were placed on high alert to provide support to the helicopter amid the standoff. The Iranian Navy reiterated its categorical demand for the US vessel to alter its course without delay.

Ultimately, the USS Fitzgerald complied and exited what Iran considers its territorial waters, defusing the immediate confrontation.

Iranian forces have a history of confronting US forces in the Gulf.

In 2023, Tehran said it forced a US submarine to surface while crossing the strategic Strait of Hormuz - a claim Washington denied.

The latest confrontation comes after US strikes on June 22 targeted Iran’s nuclear sites during a 12-day war with Israel.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the damage was “serious and severe” but insisted uranium enrichment would continue.

By Vafa Guliyeva