The incident came on Tuesday as Iranian forces intensified naval operations after the U.S. and Israel fired on Iranian targets on Feb. 28, killing the country's Supreme Leader and senior commanders. Newpara Teheran insists ships must obtain permission to cross the strait, labeling any southern approach as illegal. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi blamed Washington for the "insecurity" that fuels these confrontations. Newpara In response, the United States has imposed a counterblockade, deploying destroyers and escort vessels to protect commercial traffic. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said the U.S. will maintain a presence until the blockade is lifted. Newpara Iranian naval mines have repeatedly targeted ships via the south‑Oman corridor, a route that has seen several incidents since the war erupted. The strait carries roughly one‑fifth of the world's oil, putting thousands of crews at risk. The Guards also claimed to have shot down a U.S. MQ‑9 Reaper drone. Newpara With the U.S. announcing plans to escort additional commercial vessels through the strait, the region faces an escalating risk of collision or further escalation.