NEW: Iran strikes a U.S.-contracted vessel carrying American personnel near the Strait of Hormuz, as tensions around the critical shipping route continue to escalate. Sources tell Fox News the attack involved four Iranian drones and at least one missile, with one projectile hitting the vessel and causing minor injuries, including smoke inhalation. The attack comes as maritime tensions remain high and shipping through the Strait continues to face serious disruption. U.S. forces have also carried out repeated strikes against Iranian maritime targets in recent weeks. Vice President JD Vance says Iran's continued attacks on ships are directly affecting global energy markets, arguing the fighting will continue as long as Tehran keeps targeting vessels. The pressure is spreading beyond Hormuz, with Iran-backed Houthi forces advancing near the Strait, threatening another critical global shipping chokepoint. @​TreyYingst ▻