Iran accuses US of reckless military adventure amid Strait of Hormuz clashes (May 9, 2026)

US President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social that the US had destroyed multiple small boats, missiles and drones, and warned of greater damage if a deal is not signed quickly.

US Vice-President JD Vance met Qatar's Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in Washington to discuss Pakistan's mediation efforts between the US and Iran. The Qatari PM urged all parties to engage with negotiations to address the root causes of the crisis and achieve lasting peace.

The US signalled readiness to host a new round of Israel-Lebanon talks next week, scheduled for May 14-15, aimed at delivering lasting security for Israel and sovereignty and reconstruction for Lebanon.

Centcom said US forces had disabled two Iranian-flagged unladen oil tankers attempting to pull into an Iranian port in the Gulf of Oman in violation of the ongoing US blockade, firing precision munitions to prevent entry. Centcom said US forces were preventing more than 70 tankers from entering or leaving Iranian ports.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi posted on X accusing the US of a 'reckless military adventure' as both sides blamed each other for the Hormuz clashes. Amid the exchanges, Trump said the ceasefire remained intact, and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Iran was expected to respond to US proposals on Friday during a visit to Italy.

In the Strait of Hormuz, Centcom said Iran launched missiles, drones and small boats against three US warships in an unprovoked attack, while Iran's top military command alleged the US targeted an Iranian oil tanker and another vessel approaching the Strait and conducted aerial attacks on several coastal areas. One cargo vessel near Minab caught fire, and 10 sailors were injured and being treated.

Early this week, President Donald Trump launched a US military operation to help free about 2,000 vessels stranded in the area since February, before pausing the operation.