Iran plans to announce an ‘exclusion zone’ that runs from the U.S. naval blockade line, through the Strait of Hormuz, and into the Persian Gulf

Iran is reportedly preparing to declare an "exclusion zone" in the waters surrounding the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf, according to top Iranian officials. The zone would target vessels that Iran believes are attempting to transit the waterway. This comes after the U.S. military denied Iran's claim of striking an American military vessel in the strait, calling it a "total lie."

The U.S. Central Command spokesperson, Captain Tim Hawkins, also dismissed the Iranian allegation. The dispute has escalated following a series of attacks, including U.S. strikes on Iranian oil tankers in retaliation for Iran launching ballistic missiles at U.S. warships. The situation remains tense, with both sides continuing their military actions in the region.