US Unmanned Submarine Capture in Strait of Hormuz Claimed
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have claimed the capture of an unmanned US submarine near the Strait of Hormuz during an intelligence and operational mission early Tuesday.
The US unmanned submarine capture in the Strait of Hormuz was announced by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) through Iranian state television. The Guards described the vessel as one of the most modern unmanned and smart submarines operated by the US military.
The United States had not publicly commented on the reported US unmanned submarine capture in the Strait of Hormuz so far. The IRGC said photographs and detailed video footage of the alleged captured asset would be released later.
Iranian media reported that the unmanned underwater vehicle was designed for several surveillance and reconnaissance tasks. These reportedly included seabed mapping, mine detection, and inspection of underwater cables and pipelines.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical route for global energy shipments, carrying around one-fifth of worldwide oil and liquefied natural gas exports. Disruptions can affect international energy markets and shipping.
Washington has responded to Iran’s blockade by imposing a counter-blockade on Iranian ports. Tehran has also said it plans to collect fees from ships using the strait, saying the money would support services including environmental protection.
The Strait of Hormuz US submarine incident adds another layer to the confrontation between Tehran and Washington. The reported seizure involves an unmanned system rather than a crewed submarine. No personnel casualties have been reported.
Iran’s claim of US unmanned submarine capture in the Strait of Hormuz remains unverified publicly because Washington has not confirmed the incident. The promised footage could provide more details about the vessel and the reported seizure.
The US unmanned submarine capture in the Strait of Hormuz could also draw attention because such underwater systems are used for surveillance and mapping in sensitive maritime areas. Further official statements are expected as authorities examine the incident.