The United States conducted military strikes on two Iranian ports Thursday after three U.S. Navy destroyers came under missile attack while transiting the Strait of Hormuz, according to U.S. officials.

The American warships were targeted in what officials described as an unprovoked attack as they moved through the strategic waterway. In response, U.S. forces struck the Iranian ports of Qeshm and Bandar Abbas, both located near the strait. Iranian state media reported sounds of explosions heard near Bandar Abbas city.

The exchange of fire has raised serious questions about the stability of what officials described as an increasingly fragile U.S.-Iran ceasefire. Iran has accused the United States of violating the ceasefire agreement with the new attacks, while U.S. officials characterized their response as defensive measures.

Iranian state media provided a different sequence of events, claiming U.S. Navy ships came under missile fire after American forces attacked an Iranian oil tanker. The conflicting accounts highlight the disputed nature of how the confrontation began.

The escalation has prompted diplomatic activity, with the United States proposing a resolution regarding Iran at the United Nations Security Council. However, the measure faces likely vetoes from China and Russia, according to diplomatic sources.

The incidents occurred amid broader regional tensions, with reports indicating significant financial market activity ahead of the military actions. Oil price speculation totaling approximately $7 billion preceded news of the Iran-related military developments, reflecting market concerns about potential supply disruptions in the critical shipping lane.