Iran has issued a stark warning to the United States, stating that any foreign armed forces, particularly the US military, will face attacks if they attempt to enter the Strait of Hormuz. The threat comes in response to President Trump’s announcement that the US Navy will "guide" stranded ships in the region, following "very positive" talks with Iran.
Escalating Tensions in the Strait
The Iranian military emphasized that the security of the strategic waterway is under their control, insisting that any vessel passage must be coordinated with Iranian armed forces. "We warn that any foreign armed forces, especially the aggressive US army, will be attacked if they intend to approach and enter the Strait of Hormuz," an official statement read.
"We have repeatedly said the security of the strait of Hormuz is in our hands and that the safe passage of vessels needs to be coordinated with the armed forces."
US Evacuates Iranian Crew Members
In a related development, the US has evacuated 22 crew members from an Iranian container vessel stranded in the region. The crew was handed over to Pakistani authorities, who will facilitate their return to Iran. Pakistan’s foreign ministry described the move as a "confidence-building measure" and confirmed that the ship would be returned to Iranian ownership after necessary repairs.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies, with tensions between the US and Iran threatening to disrupt maritime trade. As both nations posture for control, the situation underscores the fragile balance of power in the Middle East.