Iran Threatens 'Quick and Painful' Response; Claims Strike on US Vessel in Hormuz

Iran has threatened a 'quick and painful' response to new US attacks and claims to have struck an American vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, a claim Washington denies. The incident, if confirmed, would mark a significant escalation in the Persian Gulf, threatening critical oil transit chokepoint. The denial creates uncertainty over the actual state of play, but the rhetoric signals heightened risk of direct US-Iran military confrontation.