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**Tensions Rise in Gulf of Oman as US and Iranian Forces Clash, Offer Conflicting Accounts**

**Gulf of Oman -** A tense encounter between US and Iranian naval forces in the Gulf of Oman has sparked conflicting narratives, highlighting the ongoing tensions in the region following recent escalations.

Iranian state media reported Wednesday that the USS Fitzgerald, a US guided missile destroyer, was warned to change course after approaching Iranian territorial waters. Iranian media released footage purporting to show a helicopter from the Iranian navy ordering the US warship to alter course. The report claimed the warship had approached waters under Iran’s supervision in the Sea of Oman

The Iranian report indicated the US destroyer reportedly responded by threatening to target the Iranian aircraft if it did not leave. The vessel eventually departed the area upon continued warnings from the Iranian military.

However, US Central Command downplayed the incident, describing it as a “safe and professional interaction” with “no impact” on the Fitzgerald’s mission. A US defense official, speaking anonymously, accused Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of spreading misinformation. The official stated the interaction occurred entirely in international waters. The aircraft was identified as an Iranian SH-3 “Sea King” helicopter.

This is the first reported direct encounter between Iranian and US forces since the recent 12-day war between Iran and Israel, which saw the US military bombing Iranian nuclear sites. While US President Trump hailed the strikes as a complete success, media reports suggest only one of the three sites were successfully destroyed.

Adding to the strained atmosphere, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian reiterated Tehran’s commitment to its nuclear program for peaceful purposes and its readiness for any future conflict with Israel. He expressed skepticism about the current ceasefire between the two nations. This incident underscores the fragile and volatile situation in the Gulf of Oman, raising concerns about potential future confrontations between the US and Iran.

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