-- US President Donald Trump said Monday that the US had shot down seven small boats and that Iran had targeted ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
"We've shot down seven small boats, or what they call 'fast' boats," Trump posted on Truth Social, describing them as limited remaining assets belonging to Iran.
On Monday, Iran targeted a South Korean cargo ship, escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.
"Iran has taken some shots at unrelated nations with respect to ship movement, including a South Korean cargo ship," Trump posted, adding that Seoul should consider joining the US-led Project Freedom.
"Perhaps it's time for South Korea to come and join the mission!" he said, referring to Project Freedom.
Trump said no additional vessels have reported damage so far, noting the South Korean vessel remains the only confirmed incident in the Strait.
"Secretary of War Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Caine will have a news conference tomorrow [Tuesday] morning," Trump added.
A fire and explosion struck South Korea's HMM-operated vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, with 24 crew onboard and no casualties reported, South Korea-based Yonhap News reported Monday, citing government officials.
South Korea's foreign ministry reportedly said an explosion and fire hit the Panama-flagged HMM Namu, while officials reviewed intelligence suggesting a possible attack.
HMM said the blaze started in the cargo ship's engine room, prompting authorities to investigate the cause.
The vessel carried 24 crew members, including six South Korean nationals, all of whom remained safe following the incident, the company said.
South Korea said 26 of its flagged vessels remain stranded in the region and added it will coordinate with partners to ensure the safety of ships and crews, Reuters reported.
Authorities reportedly shared details of the incident with rescue agencies in the UAE, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman and requested cooperation for a swift emergency response, the report said, citing the Korea Coast Guard.
According to the US Central Command's X post on Tuesday, "US Navy guided-missile destroyers are currently operating in the Arabian Gulf after transiting the Strait of Hormuz in support of Project Freedom."
US Centcom added that naval action continues in the Strait of Hormuz. "American forces are actively assisting efforts to restore transit for commercial shipping. As a first step, 2 US-flagged merchant vessels have successfully transited through the Strait of Hormuz and are safely headed on their journey."
In a follow-up post, Centcom said that as of Monday, US forces had redirected a total of 50 commercial vessels to ensure compliance with its maritime blockade.