According to a US media report, the US is urging other countries to form an international coalition to restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
This comes as oil prices have reached their highest level in more than four years due to fears of prolonged disruption in global fuel supplies.
What did the President of Iran say?
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian reiterated on the occasion of Persian Gulf National Day that the Persian Gulf should not become a base for foreign interference. His statement was given specifically targeting America amid the ongoing tension over the Strait of Hormuz. He stressed that efforts to impose a blockade or maritime embargo on Iran will fail.
In a statement issued on Friday, he said the Strait of Hormuz is a symbol of national sovereignty and reflects Iran’s commitment to ensuring regional security as the guardian of the Persian Gulf.
52 Iranian ships bypass US blockade
According to Fars News Agency, 52 Iranian ships, including 31 oil tankers and 21 cargo ships, passed the US-imposed blockade within 72 hours. The incident comes after the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced the closure of the sea route in the Strait of Hormuz, amid escalating conflict with the US and Israel.
Meanwhile, information is being received that CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper will brief President Trump about possible military operations in Iran. These plans include targeted attacks on infrastructure, seizing the Strait of Hormuz for shipping, and a Special Forces mission to secure Iran’s enriched uranium; General Dan Kane will also be present during this period.