US and Iran Exchange Fire in Strait of Hormuz Amid Ceasefire Tensions

On May 7, 2026, the US military reported intercepting attacks on three Navy destroyers in the Strait of Hormuz, responding with self-defense strikes. US Central Command stated that Iranian forces launched multiple missiles, drones, and small boats at the warships, with no American vessels sustaining damage. The US military emphasized that it does not seek escalation but remains prepared to protect its forces.

President Donald Trump commented that the Iranian attackers were significantly damaged and now reside "at the bottom of the sea." Despite the exchange, he asserted that the ceasefire remains intact but warned of further action if Tehran does not finalize a deal. "The talks are going very well, but they have to understand if it doesn't get signed, they're going to have a lot of pain," Trump told reporters in Washington.

Iranian state media reported that the military fired missiles at "enemy units" in the Strait of Hormuz following an alleged US attack on an Iranian oil tanker. An unnamed military officer stated that after the US military's attack on the tanker, enemy units in the strait came under Iranian missile fire and were forced to flee after suffering damage. Explosions were reported on Qeshm Island and in Bandar Abbas, with Iranian media attributing them to air defenses intercepting hostile drones. Two drones were reportedly shot down above Bandar Abbas, and air defenses were activated over Tehran to counter hostile targets.

The Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for global petroleum and gas, has seen heightened tensions since the outbreak of the Iran war on February 28. The closure of the strait has led to a significant global surge in energy prices. Earlier this week, President Trump announced a naval operation to escort trapped ships and reopen the strait but later called off the push. Washington is now awaiting an Iranian response to proposals aimed at ending the conflict and restoring navigation through the waterway.