DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — A U.S.-flagged oil tanker disappeared from tracking systems Tuesday in the Strait of Hormuz as President Donald Trump's "Project Freedom" escort operation entered its second day, triggering urgent search-and-rescue efforts and fears of a major escalation in the volatile waterway.

U.S. Central Command confirmed late Tuesday that contact was lost with the tanker Pacific Star shortly after it entered the narrow chokepoint under American naval protection. The vessel, carrying approximately 2 million barrels of crude, was part of a small convoy escorted by U.S. destroyers and air assets when radar and satellite signals abruptly ceased around 11:40 a.m. local time.

"We are actively searching for the vessel and its crew," Centcom spokesperson Capt. Sarah Jennings said in a statement. "Multiple threats were detected in the area, and we are treating this as a possible hostile action."

Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps officials claimed responsibility for "neutralizing" the tanker, describing it as a legitimate target operating in what Tehran calls its territorial waters. State media aired unverified footage showing what appeared to be a large explosion and thick black smoke rising from the sea near the strait's northern entrance.

The disappearance marks the most serious incident since Project Freedom launched on Monday. On the first day, U.S. forces reported sinking at least six Iranian small boats and neutralizing missile and drone attacks while successfully escorting two merchant vessels through the passage. Tuesday's events suggest Iranian forces have adapted their tactics, shifting from direct boat interceptions to more sophisticated standoff weapons.

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