Pentagon Official: A Laser Target Ship from an Iranian-Flagged Vessel Engaged

CNN reported on July 9, citing a U.S. Department of Defense official, that since last Sunday, a U.S. warship and a helicopter have been targeted by laser emissions from a commercial vessel flying the Iranian flag. This incident occurred in the Gulf of Aden, near war-torn Yemen, where Iranian officials have declared their support for Houthi rebels. The Pentagon official stated that no American personnel or equipment were harmed. The bridge of the USS Forest Sherman destroyer and a helicopter were targeted. The U.S. military has no information on the type of laser emitter or its power but suspects it was not at the level of a military or industrial emitter since it caused no damage. According to the Pentagon official, this incident is considered 'harassment' from the Iranians in the current context. CNN reported that this incident, which continued until Wednesday, July 17, occurred in international waters. The U.S. destroyer was conducting 'routine maritime missions,' but it appears the main task of the ship was monitoring the area to counter potential arms transfers to Yemen. Iranian officials have denied involvement in the situation in Yemen. Tehran has not yet reacted to this report.