Iranian Navy Interacts With U.S. Naval Vessels in North Arabian Gulf
Three Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy (IRGCN) fast inshore attack craft (FIAC) came into close proximity to U.S. naval vessels in international waters of the north Arabian Gulf at approximately 8 p.m. on April 26, failing to exercise proper regard for the safety of other vessels as required under international law.
The IRGCN armed speed boats rapidly approached U.S. Navy patrol coastal ship (PC 10) and U.S. Coast Guard patrol boat USCGC Baranoff (WPB 1318) who were conducting routine maritime security operations in international waters, coming within 68 yards to both U.S. ships. The U.S. ships executed maneuvers to reduce the risk a collision and to de-escalate the situation.
The U.S. crews issued multiple warnings, using bridge-to-bridge radio and loud-hailer devices, but the IRGCN vessels continued their maneuvers. After the crew of Firebolt fired warning shots, and the IRGCN vessels moved away to a safe distance from the U.S. vessels.
U.S. naval forces continue to remain vigilant while the commanding officers retain the inherent right to act in self-defense, the U.S. Navy said in a statement.
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