Iran Issues War Warning Following US Announcement to Assist Ships Trapped in the Strait of Hormuz
Image source, EPA/Shutterstock
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Following the US President Donald Trump’s announcement to assist ships stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, Iran has warned that any deployment of American troops in the waterway will provoke a military attack.
Trump declared on social media Monday morning that the US military would free the trapped vessels on “humanitarian” grounds due to food shortages aboard these ships.
The Iranian military asserted its control over the Hormuz Strait, vowing to attack any foreign armed forces entering the area, particularly hostile American troops.
Iran’s statement has escalated fears of military conflict. British Middle East correspondent Yolande Nell noted that if the US Navy enters the area, it could jeopardize a ceasefire crisis that has been ongoing for several weeks.
However, some reports suggest that the US Navy aims not to patrol the waterways but instead to escort the vessels safely through to protect them from Iranian attacks.
Iran Claims to Have Stopped US Warship
Image source, FARS
Iran claims to have denied a US Navy warship entry into the Strait of Hormuz.
According to the Iranian military’s public relations department, “Due to strict warnings issued by the Iranian Navy, US and Israeli warships have been unable to enter the Strait of Hormuz.”
Iranian media report that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) released a map illustrating a new control zone within the Hormuz Strait.
So far, there has been no official US response to this map and the claim.
Previously, senior Iranian lawmaker and former IRGC commander Ibrahim Azizi warned that any US interference would be considered a violation of the ceasefire.
Since the end of February, following attacks by the US and Israel on Iran, approximately 2,000 ships and 20,000 passengers have been stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, according to the United Nations’ International Organization for Migration (IOM).
Trump’s Statement
Image source, Reuters
Trump announced on Sunday via social media that the US would assist stranded ships in the Strait of Hormuz.
“For the benefit of Iran, the Middle East, and the United States, we have planned to safely escort these nations’ vessels out of this restricted waterway,” he said.
However, he did not disclose the names of those countries.
The Hormuz Strait is crucial for oil, gas, and commercial shipping from the Gulf, but Iranian attacks and a US blockade have nearly obstructed this passage.
Trump has named this operation “Project Freedom” and expressed opposition to any further American intervention.
The US military disclosed it will deploy 15,000 troops, 100 aircraft, and warships equipped with guided missiles for the campaign.
Iran’s Response
Image source, Reuters
Iran responded through the Foreign Ministry to Trump’s announcement.
In a statement published by the semi-official Mehr news agency, Foreign Ministry spokesman Ismail Bagai described Iran as the “protector and guardian” of the Hormuz maritime route.
“Shipping companies and vessels must coordinate with Iranian competent authorities to ensure safety,” he added.
He emphasized that countries complying with regulations would have no justification to accept the US’ “illegal actions.”
Previously, the head of Iran’s central military command warned of severe consequences for any foreign armed forces attempting to enter Hormuz.
Ongoing Negotiations
Image source, EPA/Shutterstock
Trump stated on Truth Social that “very positive discussions” are underway with Iran, which could yield “beneficial results for all.”
He was referring to a fourteen-point plan Iran sent to the US.
According to official media, Tehran is reviewing the US response through Pakistan.
Pakistan is mediating between Iran and the US, with Iran demanding the withdrawal of US troops near its borders, lifting of sanctions, and preventing Israeli attacks on Lebanon.
Pakistan has urged both sides to reach an agreement within 30 days.
Although the US has yet to issue an official reply, Israeli Kan News reports that Trump has rejected the plan during a telephone interview.
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