
Washington, April 1: U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth stated on Tuesday that Washington has already taken steps to keep the Strait of Hormuz operational, despite ongoing military operations against Iran.
Hegseth emphasized that significantly more ships are passing through the strait now than before. The U.S. has made it clear to Iran that the strait must remain open for trade; otherwise, alternative measures will be considered.
He described the Strait of Hormuz as “an international waterway” that should not be viewed solely as America’s responsibility. The global community must recognize that it is not just the U.S. Navy’s duty to ensure maritime safety; other nations should also be prepared to contribute.
Hegseth mentioned extensive military efforts targeting Iran’s naval capabilities, including mine-laying systems, coastal cruise missiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles (drones). He stated that the focus has been on weakening and eliminating these capabilities while limiting their alternatives.
U.S. officials indicated that both open and covert strategies are being implemented to secure the waterway. “We are doing a lot—some of it is known, and some is not—to create favorable conditions,” he noted.
The Pentagon’s emphasis on sharing responsibility highlights the increasing demand for international cooperation in securing shipping routes, especially as tensions with Iran pose threats to commercial vessels.
The Strait of Hormuz, which connects the Persian Gulf to global markets, is one of the world’s most critical energy routes. Any disruption here could directly impact oil-importing countries like India.
The U.S. has repeatedly warned that any threat to the Strait of Hormuz will elicit a strong response, underscoring its vital role in global energy security and maritime stability.
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