USS Rafael Peralta joins US naval buildup near Strait of Hormuz

A US guided-missile destroyer, the USS Rafael Peralta, has entered the Persian Gulf, becoming the third American destroyer deployed in the region, according to CBS News.

The vessel joins the USS Truxtun and USS Mason, which are already operating in the area as part of Operation “Freedom.” The ships are positioned west of the Strait of Hormuz, CBS News reported.

US officials said the destroyers form part of a layered defence system that includes aviation and air defence capabilities, aimed at protecting commercial shipping routes in the strategically vital waterway.

The deployment follows an incident on Monday, May 4, in which the USS Truxtun and USS Mason were targeted by Iranian drones and boats. The Pentagon said neither vessel sustained any damage.

Amid the rising tensions, US President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday a temporary suspension of Operation “Freedom,” the mission focused on escorting commercial vessels. Trump had originally announced the launch of the operation on May 3.

By Tamilla Hasanova