Iran claims its forces successfully struck a U.S. Navy Arleigh Burke-class destroyer operating in the Indian Ocean near the Strait of Hormuz using a combination of Ghadr and Talaieh ballistic missiles. The vessel was reportedly conducting refueling operations close to waters used in recent India-U.S. naval exercises. Iranian state media released footage purporting to show the hit and secondary explosions.

Pentagon officials have not confirmed any damage, describing the Iranian claim as “propaganda” and stating the destroyer remains fully operational. The incident marks a dangerous expansion of the naval theater beyond the Persian Gulf.

India has expressed concern over the proximity to its exclusive economic zone and called for restraint. Analysts warn that further naval clashes could threaten global shipping lanes and energy supplies from the Middle East.