New Delhi, May 4 -- The United States said on Monday (May 4) that its forces destroyed six Iranian boats and intercepted missiles and drones launched by Tehran during a tense confrontation in and around the Strait of Hormuz, marking one of the most serious escalations since the fragile ceasefire between Washington and Tehran took effect last month.

The incidents unfolded as US forces launched "Project Freedom," a military-backed effort aimed at restoring commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

Admiral Brad Cooper, head of the US Central Command (CENTCOM), said American helicopters struck six Iranian boats that were threatening civilian shipping.

"US Apache and Seahawk helicopters hit six Iranian small boats threatening commer...