President Donald Trump has responded to the recent Iranian attacks on U.S. Navy ships in the Strait of Hormuz, which represent the most serious tensions since the ceasefire agreement.
In a conversation with ABC News, Trump referred to the U.S. strikes against Iranian positions as merely a ‘love tap.’ He emphasized that, despite the attacks, the ceasefire remains in effect.
President Trump tells me in a phone call the retaliatory strikes against Iranian targets are just a “love tap.”
“It’s just a love tap.”
When I asked if it means the ceasefire is over.
“No, no, the ceasefire is going. It’s in effect.”
— Rachel Scott (@rachelvscott) May 7, 2026
The incidents unfolded while the U.S. continued naval operations focused on safeguarding commercial shipping routes affected by Iran’s blockade. This initiative, named Project Freedom, was introduced by Trump over the weekend and differs from the U.S. blockade on Iranian ports.
U.S. Central Command reported that several American vessels faced intense attacks in the Strait. These assaults surpassed previous incidents when U.S. forces engaged Iranian speedboats attempting to disrupt their operations.
Iran launched an array of missiles, drones, and fast boats during the transit of USS Truxtun, USS Rafael Peralta, and USS Mason through the international passage. Fortunately, CENTCOM confirmed that no U.S. assets were damaged during these engagements.
CENTCOM’s statement highlighted that they neutralized threats and targeted Iranian military facilities responsible for endangering U.S. forces. The command is prepared to defend American personnel while avoiding escalation.
A senior defense official noted that U.S. aircraft played a crucial role in neutralizing incoming threats. Reports confirm that the destroyers completed their missions without any reported casualties.
Despite the recent violence, both President Trump and Iranian officials have indicated their commitment to maintaining the ceasefire.
