A fragile Middle East ceasefire came under renewed strain Tuesday as the United States and Iran exchanged fire and sharp warnings following the launch of a new U.S. initiative to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

U.S. President Donald Trump has introduced “Project Freedom,” a military-backed effort aimed at breaking Iran’s control over the vital shipping corridor, where disruptions have constrained global trade and driven up energy prices.

Tensions escalated as Iranian forces reportedly targeted U.S. naval and commercial vessels with cruise missiles, drones, and small attack boats. The U.S. military said none of its ships were hit, while Trump stated that American forces destroyed eight Iranian boats during the confrontation.

Despite the hostilities, two U.S.-flagged merchant ships successfully transited the strait under naval escort. Shipping company Maersk confirmed that one of its carriers exited the  under U.S. military protection.

Iran, however, disputed those claims, denying that any commercial vessels had completed the passage and insisting its naval assets suffered no damage.

Senior Iranian officials struck a defiant tone. Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned that Iran had not yet fully responded, while Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi argued that the latest developments demonstrate there is no military solution to the crisis, dismissing the U.S. operation as ineffective.

The exchange underscores the volatility in the region, raising concerns that continued clashes could derail ongoing diplomatic efforts and further destabilize global energy markets.