The Boxer took defensive action against an Iranian drone, which had closed into a very, very near distance - approximately 1,000 yards, ignoring multiple calls to stand down and was threatening the safety of the ship and the ship's crew.

The drone was immediately destroyed.

This is the latest of many provocative and hostile actions by Iran against vessels operating in international waters.

The United States reserves the right to defend our personnel, our facilities, and interests.

And calls upon all nations to condemn Iran's attempts to disrupt freedom of navigation and global commerce.

I also call on other nations to protect their ships as they go through the Strait and to work with us in the future.

Thank you very much.

I thought you should know that.