US denies Iran struck a military vessel during new effort to reopen Strait of Hormuz

The U.S. announced that two American-flagged merchant ships had successfully transited the Strait of Hormuz, as part of a new initiative to reopen the waterway. It also denied Iranian claims of striking a U.S. Navy vessel. Iran claims the effort violates the ceasefire, while the U.S. warns of forceful action if Iran continues to block shipping.