Pentagon: 13 Ships Turn Away From US Blockade of Iran's Strait of Hormuz
Thirteen ships have turned around instead of challenging the US naval blockade of Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz, Pentagon officials said Thursday. The blockade began Monday and is being enforced by US Navy ships.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine briefed reporters Thursday on the US blockade of Iranian ports near the Strait of Hormuz. Caine said 13 ships had "made the wise choice" of turning around instead of trying to cross the waterway.
The US Navy blockade began Monday and targets Iranian-linked ships crossing the strait. Some sources report the number as high as 14 vessels that have turned back in the three-day period.
The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway between Iran and Oman that serves as a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. About one-fifth of the world's petroleum passes through this 21-mile-wide strait daily.
Hegseth urged Iran to "choose wisely" during the briefing, saying the US is "reloading" its capabilities in the region. The blockade represents a significant escalation in tensions between the US and Iran.
Details about what prompted the blockade and how long it will continue are still emerging.
The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial shipping lane where about 20% of the world's oil passes through. Any disruption here can affect gas prices and global trade, making this blockade significant for the world economy.
Watch for Iran's response to the blockade and potential impacts on global oil prices and shipping routes.
Was this article helpful?
0 people found this helpful