Iran Targets US Ships in Hormuz Strait

Iran Attacks U.S. Vessels in Hormuz Strait On May 4, 2026, Iran launched drone and missile attacks against U.S. destroyers and merchant vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, while also targeting the United Arab Emirates with missiles and drones. This escalation occurred as the U.S. intensified efforts to open the strait, prompting a military response from Iran, which claims control over the waterway.

U.S. Central Command head Admiral Brad Cooper reported that Iranian forces fired drones and missiles at two U.S. destroyers and two merchant ships, none of which were hit. Additionally, Iran deployed six fast boats against commercial vessels, which were subsequently destroyed by U.S. forces. Concurrently, Iran launched 15 missiles and four drones at the UAE, causing a fire in the Fujairah oil hub.

The attacks follow a period where the U.S. administration maintained a blockade of Iranian ports, which it had controversially declared as a “terminated” war on April 7, despite ongoing military action. A recent Washington Post –ABC News–Ipsos poll indicated that 59% of Americans question President Trump's mental sharpness and 55% doubt his physical health for the presidency.