Iran says American naval forces are already operating more than 500 kilometres from its coastline and claims it is preparing new offensive operations intended to push US vessels even farther away. Iranian Army spokesperson Brigadier General Mohammad Akraminia said American forces “no longer dare to come closer.” His remarks come amid initial reports of new anti-ship cruise missile launches from Iran’s southern coastline towards US Navy-escorted vessels or American naval forces near the Strait of Hormuz. Those reported launches have not been independently confirmed. Maritime security risks are also widening. UK Maritime Trade Operations says at least 12 vessels were attacked in the week ending October 16 and warns the actual number may be higher because some incidents go unreported.CENTCOM disputes Tehran’s portrayal of control over Hormuz, saying hundreds of vessels and roughly 100 million barrels of oil moved through the Strait during the previous week. The competing claims underline a growing contest over maritime access, distance and control.