The Iranian military on May 4 warned US forces not to enter the Strait of Hormuz after President Donald Trump announced that Washington would support ships stranded in the area due to the US-Israel conflict with Iran.
On May 3 (US time), President Trump said the US would help ships and crews leave the restricted sea route, where many vehicles are lacking food and necessities after more than two months of fighting.
The unified Command of the Iranian Armed Forces declared that it would "respond strongly" to all threats, and requested commercial ships and oil tankers not to move without coordination with the Iranian army. Major General Ali Abdollahi, Commander of the Khatam al-Anbiya Center Command of Iran, affirmed that the security of the strait is in Iran's hands and warned that all foreign forces, especially the US, will be attacked if they approach the area.
The US Central Command said it will support the operation with 15,000 soldiers, more than 100 aircraft and warships along with unmanned aerial vehicles. Admiral Brad Cooper, Commander of the US Central Command, emphasized that this mission aims to protect regional security and the global economy, while maintaining naval blockade.
According to the International Maritime Organization, hundreds of ships and about 20,000 crew members could not pass through the strait. A oil tanker recently reported being attacked by an unidentified object, but all sailors are safe.
Iran has blocked almost all ships not belonging to this country for more than 2 months, causing energy prices to increase sharply. Some ships were shot and seized, while the US also imposed separate blockades on ships from Iranian ports. Washington is seeking to establish an international alliance to ensure maritime traffic, combining diplomatic and military measures.
The developments occurred as Iran is considering the US response to a 14-point peace proposal, including a proposal to postpone nuclear talks. The two sides have stopped airstrikes for 4 weeks but have not made clear progress. The US continues to demand strict restrictions on its nuclear program, while Iran affirms its peaceful purpose and is ready to discuss if sanctions are lifted.
